The Perfect Mint Julep - bourbon

Method

• To prepare mint extract, remove about 40 small mint leaves.
• Wash and place in a small bowl.
• Cover with 3 ounces 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 to dissolve sugar.
• Stir constantly so the sugar does not burn.
• Set aside to cool.
• To prepare mint julep mixture, pour 3 1/2 cups of bourbon into a large glass bowl or glass pitcher.
• Add 1 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) 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 and add a sprinkle of powdered sugar to the top of the ice.
• Serve immediately.