Mint Julep

Best known as the choice cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, this concoction is usually served in a rocks glass or more appropriately in a silver julep cup. Use a slightly higher-proof bourbon to keep the crushed ice from diluting the beverage too quickly.

• ¼ oz. simple syrup
• 2 oz. bourbon
• 7 mint leaves
• mint sprig for garnish
• angostura bitters for garnish (optional)

In a Julep cup or rocks glass, lightly muddle the mint leaves in the simple syrup. Add the bourbon then pack the glass tightly with crushed ice. Stir until the cup is frosted on the outside. Top with more crushed ice to form an ice dome, and garnish with a mint sprig and a few drops of bitters (optional).