Blackberry Mint Juleps

A Bobby Flay recipe in the March 2009 edition of EveryDay with Rachael Ray. Cooking time is resting time for the blackberry/sugar mixture. Beware. . .I felt these were VERY strong, so you may want to cut back on the amount of bourbon if you are wimpy like me!!!

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1  pint fresh blackberries, rinsed and dried
• 1⁄2 cup  superfine sugar (I subbed Splenda with great results)
• 1⁄2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1  large  bunch mint
•  crushed  ice
• 1  cup Bourbon
•  seltzer water, chilled (I subbed diet lemon lime soda with great results)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mash together the blackberries, sugar and vanilla and let sit at room temperature until juicy, about 20 minutes.
2. Strain the mixture through a sieve into a bowl, pressing against the solids with a rubber spatula; discard the seeds.
3. For each drink, place about 3 tablespoons of the blackberry syrup and 8 mint leaves into a cocktail glass and muddle together using the handle of a wooden spoon.
4. Fill with crushed ice, 1/4 cup bourbon and a splash of seltzer. Garnish with a mint sprig.