SERVES 1
SKILL LEVEL: EASY
COOK TIME: 10 MINS.
PREP TIME: 5 MINS.
COST: $
This is the traditional cocktail that they serve at the Kentucky Derby. It’s a great drink to usher in spring and summer: a beautiful horse race, people in their warm weather finery, and a cold, delicious glassful of good cheer. If you can’t make it to the Derby, it’s perfect at a slightly fancy backyard party. Most of the time when people come over for a barbecue, they’re wearing their plaid shorts and a wifebeater. Sometimes it’s just nice to say on an invitation: “A slightly fancy barbecue.”
Crushed ice
2 ounces bourbon
1 ounce simple syrup (recipe follows)
1 slice sugar cane (optional)
2–3 sprigs mint, to garnish
1. Place the ice in a glass and top with the bourbon and the simple syrup. Stir with the sugar cane and garnish with mint.
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
½ bunch mint (leaves only)
2. Heat the water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, about 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and add the mint leaves. Steep for 3–4 minutes, and then strain and refrigerate.