Classic Mint Juleps

Recipe by: Florence Fabricant | from Park Avenue Potluck: Celebrations

Cookstr

Course: Beverage

Total Time: A Day Or More

Skill Level: Moderate

Cost: Moderate

Photo by: � Ben Fink, from Park Avenue Potluck Celebrations, Rizzoli, 2010

The key here is making the simple syrup in advance and using special short silver julep cups.

Yield: Makes 12 drinks

INGREDIENTS

1 cup sugar
2 bunches fresh mint
Crushed ice
1 (750-milliliter) bottle bourbon
3 cups (24 ounces) chilled club soda, optional

Directions

First, make the sugar syrup (simple syrup). Mix the sugar with 1 cup water in a small saucepan, bring to a simmer, and cook just until the sugar dissolves. Pour into a container, add 1 bunch of the mint, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Remove the mint, draining it well, and discard it.

For each julep, fill a metal julep cup (or an old-fashioned glass) with crushed ice. Pour in 1 tablespoon of the mint syrup and 2 ounces (¼ cup) bourbon. Stir. Add a splash of club soda, if desired, garnish with fresh mint, and serve.