In a cocktail shaker, place 3 thin cucumber slices and 8 mint leaves. Add the fresh lime juice and simple syrup. Gently muddle 6–8 times — press to release cucumber juice and mint oils without tearing the mint into tiny bits.

Add spirit and ice

Pour 2 oz Hendrick's Gin into the shaker. Add 1 cup of ice (enough to fill the shaker about two-thirds).

Shake

Shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds until the shaker is cold to the touch and well-chilled (this both chills and lightly dilutes the cocktail).

Prepare glass

Fill a highball or Collins glass with fresh ice (about 1 cup). If you prefer a lighter finish, leave space for a 1 oz splash of club soda.

Double strain and serve

Double strain the shaken cocktail into the prepared glass over the fresh ice using a Hawthorne strainer and a fine mesh strainer to catch cucumber bits and mint fragments. If desired, add a 1 oz splash of club soda on top and gently stir once to combine.

Garnish

Finish with a cucumber wheel on the rim, a sprig of mint placed between the cucumber and rim (slap the mint briefly on the back of your hand to release aroma), and a lime wedge on the side.

Serve

Serve immediately while cold. Offer a straw if preferred.