Cooling off with Minty Fresh Cocktails

Here are some cooling mint drink recipes to cool you down on these hot summer days!

Mint Julep

One of the oldest cocktails of them all, this originated in the southern states of the USA, probably in the 18th century. It's the drink of tradition at the Kentucky Derby, the first Saturday in May, and is an incomparably refreshing mixture that has deservedly become a classic.

-1 tbsp superfine sugar
-8 - 10 fresh mint leaves
-1 tbsp hot water
-crushed ice
-3 tbsp bourbon

Place the sugar in a mortar or bar glass. Tear the mint leaves into small pieces and add them to the sugar. Bruise them with a pestle or use a muddler to release their flavor and color. Add the hot water and grind well together. Spoon into a highball glass and half-fill with crushed ice. Add the bourbon.

Stir until the outside of the glass has frosted. Allow to stand for a couple minutes, until the ice melts slightly and dilutes the drink.

Mojito

There are several theories behind the origin of the name Mojito; one such theory holds that name relates to mojo, a Cuban seasoning made from lime and used to flavour dishes. Another theory is that the name Mojito is simply a derivative of mojadito, Spanish for "a little wet", or simply the diminutive of "mojado" (wet). Whatever theory you subscribe to, the Mojito will cool you down on hot summer days!

-1/2 teaspoon confectioners' sugar
-1/2 lime, juiced
-2 sprigs fresh mint
-crushed ice
-2 fluid ounces white rum
-4 fluid ounces carbonated water

In a highball glass, stir together the confectioners' sugar and lime juice. Bruise the mint leaves of one of the sprigs and drop into glass. Fill glass with crushed ice and pour in rum. Pour in carbonated water to fill the glass. Garnish with a sprig of mint.