Place the mint leaves and sugar into a sturdy glass or julep cup. Use a muddler to gently press and twist the mint leaves with the sugar until the leaves release their aromatic oils and the sugar begins to dissolve, about 30 seconds. Look for the mint to appear darker and coated with sugar, with a fragrant aroma.
10 fresh mint leaves, 1 tbsp granulated sugar
Add the bourbon to the muddled mint mixture in the cup. Use a bar spoon to gently stir and combine, allowing the flavors to meld for about 15 seconds. You should see the mixture turn a light amber color and smell fragrant, with the mint leaves still visible to the side.
2 oz bourbon
Fill the cup with crushed ice, heaping over the top. Use the back of a spoon to lightly press the ice to help it settle evenly, creating a domed surface on the drink. The mixture should be visibly cold and frosty, with the ice reaching the rim of the cup.
1 cup crushed ice
Gently stir the drink with a bar spoon to blend the bourbon and mint flavors with the ice. As you stir, you should hear a slight clink of the ice and see the liquid beginning to ripple smoothly, with the drink becoming uniformly chilled and mint-infused.
2 oz bourbon, 1 cup crushed ice
Garnish the top of the julep with a sprig of fresh mint. Optionally, place a straw or a small spoon for stirring. The final appearance should be a frosty, golden drink with vibrant green mint on top, ready to serve.
10 fresh mint leaves
