Blackberry-Bourbon Julep

1. 1

   Mash together the blackberries, sugar, and vanilla in a small bowl and let macerate at room temperature until juicy, about 20 minutes.

2. 2

   Strain the mixture through a sieve into a bowl, pressing against the solids with a rubber spatula to extract as much juice as possible.

3. 3

   Discard the seeds.

4. 4

   Put about 2 tablespoons of the blackberry liquid and 1 tablespoon of the bourbon into a silver mint julep cup, add 8 mint leaves, and muddle together.

5. 5

   Add shaved ice until the cup is half full.

6. 6

   Insert a sprig of mint and then pack in more ice to about 1 inch over the top of the cup.

7. 7

   Pour 1/4 cup of the bourbon over the ice, add a splash of club soda, and garnish with several big sprigs of mint.

8. 8

   Garnish with whole blackberries, if desired.

9. 9

   Repeat steps 2 and 3 three times to make 4 drinks.

10. 10

    Serve immediately.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.