MINT JULEPS


1 cup sugar
1 cup water
8 fresh mint sprigs, finely chopped
1 quart bourbon
10 fresh mint sprigs


Combine the sugar, water, chopped mint and the bourbon in a glass container; stir until sugar dissolves. Cover and let stand 4 to 6 hours. Strain the mixture into a large pitcher, discard the chopped mint. To serve, fill glasses with crushed ice; add the mixture, garnish with the additional mint springs.