In many antiquated recipes for this Southern specialty, infusing mint syrup is a necessary step in making a proper Mint Julep (page 78). This is a very simple ingredient to make and will greatly enhance the flavor of the cocktails you use it in. It is traditionally used as an ingredient in juleps and smashes.

Ingredients

　　About 50 fresh mint leaves

　　1 quart simple syrup (page 154)

　　Carefully and lightly bruise the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon in a food-safe container. Pour the syrup over the leaves, cover, and refrigerate for 4 hours. Strain and keep refrigerated. Fill a labeled squeeze bottle for easiest use. The syrup will keep for about 3 days.

　　Reprinted with permission from Speakeasy: The Employees Only Guide to Classic Cocktails Reimagined by Jason Kosmas and Dushan Zaric, © 2010 Ten Speed Press. Buy the full book from Amazon or Bookshop.