Jumbo Julep

When the Cocktail Vultures decide to throw a deck party, we have to ramp up those batches of booze. How do you craft a delicious Mint Julep and keep all those thirsty guests at bay?

Forget that muddler for now and put away the granulated sugar. Instead, whip up a batch of our Brown Sugar Syrup (two parts dark brown sugar to one part water http://cocktailvultures.com/2013/04/24/mint-julep-meets-brown-sugar-syrup/)
and get out your biggest shaker. Better yet a 2 quart Mason Jar.

Prep five glasses or Julep cups by packing them with crushed ice but leaving a space to insert a straw and some mint leaves as garnish.

To that great big shaker, add:

Ice cubes
A healthy handful of fresh mint leaves (Chocolate mint is our favorite variety)
10 ounces bourbon (we like the over-proof Fighting Cock http://www.heavenhill.com/brand/18 for juleps
2-3 ounces Brown Sugar Syrup
2 ounces cold water

Shake it like you mean it. You are “Ice-muddling” (a term of our creation) that mint. You’ll achieve a fresh mint flavor without any blackened, slimy chlorophyll at the bottom of your glasses.

Strain into the prepared glasses. Top with a little straight Bourbon if you want a stronger flavor.

Now fan yourself, Scarlett, because this one packs a wallop!

Always drink responsibly; always drink well.