8 fresh mint leaves

1 tablespoon simple syrup (recipe below)

Crushed ice

2 ounces bourbon

Mint sprig for garnish

In a silver julep cup, add mint leaves and simple syrup and muddle together. Fill with crushed ice and pour in bourbon. Garnish with mint sprig and serve immediately.

Yield: 1 serving

Simple syrup

1 cup water

1 cup sugar

In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer several minutes until sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and let syrup cool. Pour into a jar and refrigerate until ready to use.