Sip on these Mint Juleps

We love any occasion that calls for a specific drink to celebrate. You don’t just want a cocktail, it’s a defining element. Like, the event is somehow lesser without it. There’s history behind it. There’s a reason. We’re allowed. The julep has been filling frosty silver mugs during the Kentucky Derby since the late 1800s, perhaps as a way to lubricate an otherwise reticent gambler. But gambler or not, we’ll bet this refreshing, boozy, ice-cold beverage will knock your socks off. Sip slowly and enjoy the buzz.

total time: 5 minutes

active prep: 5 minutes

serves: 1

difficulty: easy

Ingredients

• 2½ ounces Kentucky bourbon
• 1 teaspoon superfine sugar
• 10 small fresh mint leaves, plus 4 sprigs for serving
• Crushed ice (done in blender on ice-crush setting)

special equipment

• drink muddler
• blender with ice crush setting

Directions

Muddle the mint leaves and sugar in a 12-ounce glass until the mint is pretty demolished. Pour in the bourbon. Fill the glass two-thirds full with crushed ice and stir gently. Pop the mint sprigs in the drink.