The first time I had this drink was for Easter Sunday. I had the family over, and my son-in-law made the best mint juleps. Wow, what a great drink! Simple and dainty but with a slight kick. With only five simple ingredients: simple syrup, mint leaves, a whole lot of ice, a splash of water (or club soda), and the kicker–Kentucky Bourbon. Yessir, this was a good one.

I added a few chamomile flowers for garnish because I just love pretty drinks. I think they looked very Easter-y, don’t you? This is absolutely a drink I’ll be having again. It’s got spring and summer written all over it. I hope you enjoy this classic. Please drink responsibly.

Here is the recipe:

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Serving: One 6 oz. glass

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. of Kentucky Bourbon
• 1 oz. of simple syrup (see recipe below)
• Fresh mint leaves, plus more for garnish
• Ice, crushed
• A splash of water (or club soda)

Directions for simple syrup:

1. In a small saucepan add equal parts ½ cup of water and ½ cup of sugar on medium heat. Stir carefully for 1-2 minutes or until the water comes to a boil and the sugar has fully dissolved.
2. Take the saucepan off the heat, then cover.
3. Allow the simple syrup to cool, then store in a glass container with a lid (mason jar) and refrigerate until it is ready to use.

Directions for Mint Julep:

1. Using a cocktail shaker, add 5 or 6 mint leaves and the simple syrup. Muddle the ingredients together to release the oils from the mint leaves.
2. Add the crushed ice, followed by 2 ounces of Kentucky Bourbon. Shake for a few seconds. (You can also do this step directly in the 6 oz. glass, but muddle carefully so as not to break the glass. Just stir and serve if you are going to do this.)
3. Pour the cocktail mixture into the glass.
4. Follow with a splash of water or club soda.
5. Garnish with a sprig of mint. Cheers!