In a sturdy highball glass or mixing glass, place the fresh mint leaves and the lime wedge. Add the simple syrup. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, gently press and twist 6–8 times to release the mint oils and extract lime flavor. Do not over-muddle into a paste — you want fragrant oils, not bitterness.

Add passionfruit

Spoon the passionfruit pulp (about 1 oz) into the glass with the muddled mint and lime. Gently stir once or twice to combine so the passionfruit integrates with the syrup and oils.

Build the Cocktail

Add rum and ice

Pour 2 oz white rum over the muddled mixture. Fill the glass with crushed ice up to about 3/4 full (approximately 1 cup crushed ice).

Mix

Using a long spoon or bar spoon, stir gently 8–10 times to chill and slightly dilute the drink so flavors marry.

Finish & Garnish

Top with soda

Top the drink with 2 oz club soda (adjust to taste). Give a light final stir to combine soda without flattening the effervescence.

Garnish and serve

Add a small spoonful (optional 0.5 oz) of extra passionfruit pulp on top for visual appeal and texture. Slap a mint sprig between your hands to release aroma and set it in the glass. Optionally tuck a lime wedge on the rim. Serve with a straw.