Traditional Mint Julep

Traditional Mint Julep

1 ounce sugar

8 to 10 spearmint leaves*, plus a handful of mint sprigs for garnish

2 cups crushed ice

2 ounces Woodford Reserve Bourbon

Silver or Pewter julep cup. (If you don’t have one, use highball glasses.)

Place a couple mint leaves in one hand and clap the other hand over them once or twice to release their oils. Rub the inside of the cup with the leaves and drop them into the cup. After you've added 8 to 10 mint leaves, lightly bruise leaves with a wooden muddler or spoon and add the sugar and stir into the leaves.

Fill cup halfway with ice, add bourbon, and stir until cup is frosted. Add more ice, gently stir, and top with a larger bouquet of mint.

*Spearmint is a bit milder than peppermint. If you are using peppermint, avoid the larger leaves, which tend to be bitter.