To prepare mint extract, remove about 40 small mint leaves. Wash and place in a small bowl. Cover with 1/4 cup bourbon. Allow the leaves to soak for 15 minutes. Then gather the leaves in paper toweling. Thoroughly wring the mint over the bowl of whisky. Dip the bundle again and repeat the process several times.

To prepare simple syrup, mix 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of distilled water in a small saucepan. Heat just until sugar is dissolved. Stir constantly so the sugar does not burn. Set aside to cool. (You’ll have extra…which is fantastic for sweetening iced tea in the summer!)

To prepare mint julep mixture, pour 1 and 3/4 cups of bourbon into a large glass bowl or glass pitcher. Add 1/2  cup of the simple syrup to the bourbon.

Now begin adding the mint extract 1 tablespoon at a time to the julep mixture. Each batch of mint extract is different, so you must taste and smell after each tablespoon is added. You are looking for a soft mint aroma and taste-generally about 3 tablespoons. When you think it’s right, pour the whole mixture back into the empty liter bottle and refrigerate it for at least 24 hours to “marry” the flavors.

To serve the julep, fill each glass (preferably a silver mint julep cup or a chilled lowball glass) 1/2 full with shaved ice. Insert a spring of mint and then pack in more ice to about 1-inch over the top of the cup. Then, insert a straw that has been cut to 1-inch above the top of the cup so the nose is forced close to the mint when sipping the julep.

When frost forms on the cup, pour the refrigerated julep mixture over the ice. Serve immediately.

*NOTE- Booker’s bourbon is stronger than most. If you are use to another brand, it may have a lower alcohol content. Adjust accordingly.

Enjoy!

~Melissa