Mint Julep

For this flavor-packed and easy mint julep recipe, you'll skip the muddling and instead make a fragrant, refreshing simple syrup perfumed with fresh mint leaves. Doing so imbues the classic bourbon cocktail with gads more flavor—it's also a great way to prep a big batch of the drink for a group and the mint syrup can be used to make other drinks, like a mojito or minty lemonade.

As for the other essential ingredients in this classic cocktail recipe? While you'll often see this drink with Woodford Reserve, you can choose any Kentucky bourbon, such as Old Forester or Wild Turkey 101, or even go with another spirit, such as brandy or cognac. Crushed ice, though, is a must. If you don't have an ice crusher, fill a sealable bag with ice cubes and bash away. A silver cup (or one made from stainless steel, pewter, or copper) is a nice touch, and ostensibly keeps the drink colder for longer, but a regular ol' old-fashioned glass (or the small side of your cocktail shaker) will do just fine. To finish, place a sprig of mint in your palm and give it one quick slap to release its essential oils before tucking it into the side of the glass. Whether you're rounding up a gang for a Kentucky Derby party, gathering friends for any weekend from Memorial Day through Labor Day, or trying to keep your one-and-only-self refreshed this summer, keep this recipe on hand.

Editor's note: This recipe was originally published in May 2006.