Fresh Basil Julep

Prep: 10 min. A cocktail straw is placed near the basil sprig garnish so you sniff the fragrance of basil as you take a sip.

Yield: Makes 1 serving

Ingredients

• 3  fresh basil leaves
• 1  tablespoon  Basil Simple Syrup
• Crushed ice
• 2  tablespoons  (1 oz.) bourbon
• 1  (4-inch) cocktail straw
• 1  fresh basil sprig
• Powdered sugar (optional)

Preparation

1. Place basil leaves and Basil Simple Syrup in a julep cup or an 8- to 10-oz. glass. Gently press leaves against sides of cup with back of a spoon to release flavor. Pack cup tightly with crushed ice; pour bourbon over ice. Insert straw, and place basil sprig directly next to straw. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.

Note: For testing purposes only, we used Woodford Reserve Distiller's Select Bourbon.

Fresh Mint Julep: Prepare recipe as directed, substituting mint leaves for basil leaves, Mint Simple Syrup for Basil Simple Syrup, and 1 small fresh mint sprig for basil sprig.