Originally Juleps were conceived to mask the poor alcohol which was being brewed at the time. Today, however, juleps are most preferred by those who enjoy the nuances of alcohol but are bothered by the bitter flavors.
Juleps are mixed drinks combining both mint sprigs and liquor. They are prepared in the glass in which they will be served. To create a julep, place about a dozen leaves in a collins glass with 2 lumps of sugar. Use a spoon to muddle, or repeatedly press together, the leaves and the sugar. After crushing the mint leaves and sugar together, fill the glass halfway with crushed ice, add the liquor, sitr, and fill with additional crushed ice. Since the liquor will only absorb a set amount of sugar, when first making juleps you ahould err on the side of adding too much sugar to the drink, and leaving it unabsorbed at the bottom of the glass. A popular garnish is a mint sprig sparkled with sugar.
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