In a small bowl add ¼ cup sugar and ¼ water and bring to boil. Then add mint leaves

Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook, without stirring, until the syrup is slightly reduced and syrupy, about 10 minutes.

Transfer the syrup to a bowl and let stand to cool slightly, about 10 minutes. Discard the mint leaves.

Let it cool to room temperature. Store in a covered glass jar in the refrigerator for up to six months.

In a Julep cup add mint leaves, then add mint simple syrup. Lightly muddle the mint leaves with back of spoon or wooden muddle so that it releases mint leaves.

Add the bourbon then pack the glass tightly with crushed ice.

Stir until the cup is frosted on the outside.

Top with more crushed ice to form an ice dome, and garnish with a mint sprig