Ingredients:

2 oz (60 ml) whiskey – Bourbon or rye whiskey works beautifully as the base of this drink. Bourbon’s smooth, caramel undertones or rye’s spicier profile complement the other ingredients perfectly.
1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice – The fresh citrus flavor brightens the drink and balances the warmth of the whiskey.
1 oz (30 ml) simple syrup – Adds the ideal touch of sweetness to counter the tart lemon juice and highlight the whiskey’s richness.
4–5 fresh mint leaves – Mint introduces a cooling, herbal aroma that enhances the cocktail’s flavor profile.
Ice cubes – Essential for chilling the cocktail and slightly diluting it to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
Optional garnishes: fresh cranberries, pomegranate seeds, or a sugared rim to enhance the drink’s festive appeal.
Fresh mint sprig for garnish – Completes the presentation and reinforces the drink’s refreshing minty notes.

Instructions

Preparation:

Step 1: Begin by preparing the simple syrup if you don’t have it on hand. Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan, heat gently while stirring, and set aside to cool.
Step 2: In a cocktail shaker, combine the fresh mint leaves and simple syrup. Muddle gently to release the mint’s aromatic oils, being careful not to over-muddle and cause bitterness.
Step 3: Add the whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and ice to the shaker. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to ensure the ingredients are well combined and chilled.
Step 4: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. To achieve a smooth drink free of mint fragments, double strain the cocktail using a fine-mesh sieve.
Step 5: Garnish the drink with a fresh mint sprig and, if desired, a few cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a festive touch. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

The quality of the whiskey you use is crucial to the success of this cocktail. Opt for a whiskey you enjoy sipping neat, as its flavor will shine through in the drink. When muddling mint, a gentle hand is key to avoid over-extracting the leaves and introducing bitterness. If fresh lemon juice is unavailable, bottled juice can be a substitute, but it’s worth noting that fresh juice provides a brighter and more vibrant flavor. For a refined presentation, consider using clear ice cubes or spheres, which melt more slowly and maintain the drink’s balance for longer.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: None

Nutrition

Calories: 150
Sodium: 5mg
Protein: 0g