Mint Juleps

Mint juleps are refreshing bourbon-based cocktails served over crushed ice and mint. The drink is originally from the Deep South and many "official" recipes exist. The drink became so popular in America in the mid nineteenth century that temperance campaigners in the state of Virginia demanded that all mint beds be destroyed

For each serving:
3 sprigs of fresh mint
1/2 tps superfine sugar
1 tbsp soda water
Crushed ice cubes
1 measure of bourbon
Sprig of mint, to decorate

Crush the mint in a tall glass with the sugar and rub it around the inside of the glass. Discard the mint. Add the soda water and stir until the sugar dissolves. Add the crushed ice and pour over the bourbon, but do not stir. Decorate with a sprig of mint.

Herb Ice Cubes

Give your drinks a festive look by freezing herbs with water in ice cube trays. Nasturtium petals and leaves, borage flowers and mint leaves are all ideal and will add a splash of color. Fill an ice cube tray half-full, add the herbs and freeze. Top off the ice cube tray and return to the freezer. If you are planning a party, it is easy to make large batches of these ice cubes in advance.