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Ingredients
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Cocktail
Method
Cocktail
Prepare glass
Select a double old-fashioned glass or rocks glass. Add a small handful of crushed ice to the glass to chill it while you prepare the cocktail; discard this ice before serving or leave it in if you prefer the drink extra cold.
Muddle citrus and mint
Cut the lemon in half and reserve one half for garnish. In a mixing glass or cocktail shaker, add the lemon half (cut side down) or the juice of 1/2 lemon, the 8 fresh mint leaves, and 0.75 oz simple syrup. Gently muddle 6–8 times — just enough to release the lemon juice and the mint oils. Be careful not to over-muddle the mint (which can make it bitter).
Add bourbon and bitters
Add 2 oz Maker's Mark bourbon to the muddled lemon and mint. If using, add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters. Add a small handful of crushed ice to the shaker to slightly chill and dilute the mixture.
Shake and strain
Briefly shake the mixture for about 6–8 seconds to combine and chill. Strain the mixture into the prepared rocks glass over fresh crushed ice (fill the glass to the top).
Finish and garnish
Give the drink a quick gentle stir (1–2 turns) to integrate. Slap the mint sprig between your hands to release aromatics and place it as a garnish alongside a lemon wheel or wedge on the rim. Serve immediately.
Notes
Adjust simple syrup to taste if you prefer sweeter or drier. If you prefer a brighter lemon flavor, use the juice of 1/2 lemon instead of muddling the half. For a slightly different texture, build the drink directly in the glass by muddling lemon and mint with syrup inside the serving glass, then add bourbon and crushed ice.