An Excellent Mint Julep (Ruhlman)
10-12 broad leaves of mint, plus a sprig for garnish
2 teaspoons sugar
3 ounces Maker’s Mark (or bourbon of your choice)
Combine the mint, sugar and a half ounce of bourbon in a mortar and pestle (or any device for aggressive muddling) and muddle.
Add the remaining bourbon and let it rest while you ready a lowball glass with ice.
Strain the bourbon over the ice (I actually strained it into a two cub measuring glass because my mortar and pestle is so big and heavy, then poured it over the ice). Press the mint in the strainers to squeeze as much liquid out as possible.