The minty mojito is taken to a sparkling new level with this variation on a tropical themed drink. It is remarkably refreshing—an excellent opening act for an evening of fun and fine dining.

Ingredients

　　7 to 10 fresh mint leaves, plus 1 leaf for garnish

　　1/2 oz/15 ml Simple Syrup

　　Juice of 1/4 lime, plus 1 lime wedge for garnish

　　1 oz/30 ml rum

　　Ice cubes

　　1 oz/30 ml chilled sparkling wine

　　In a cocktail shaker, combine the mint leaves with the Simple Syrup and lime juice. Using a muddler or the handle of a long wooden spoon, crush the mint. Add the rum and fill the cocktail shaker about two-thirds full with ice cubes. Cover and shake vigorously for 5-10 seconds. Strain through a strainer or fine-mesh sieve into a rocks glass filled with ice. Top with the sparkling wine. Garnish with the reserved mint leaf and a wedge of lime. Serve at once.

　　From Domaine Chandon Cookbook by Jeff Morgan. Text copyright © 2010 by Domaine Chandon; photography © 2010 by France Ruffenach. Published by Chronicle Books LLC.