It’s time to celebrate the Fourth of July. And what could be more American than bourbon? Apple pie? Pumpkin pie? Bourbon Pumpkin Pie? I actually made that! Among other bourbon recipes. But this delicious drink goes back to New York. I’ve mentioned Five Points Restaurant before, and it seems I always go back to it from time to time. That’s where we had this delicious cocktail some years ago. It’s so simple. And bourbon, lemon and mint really belong together. Some things are just that way. Like Jeff and I. We’re celebrating our 11th anniversary this weekend and it just gets better every year. Jeff is from Kentucky, where 95% of the world’s bourbon is made (I don’t think I had bourbon before we met so you can see the Kentucky bourbon connection here), there are a lot of great whiskeys and scotches, but bourbon is really special. If you’re new to whiskey I recommend trying this cocktail. Bourbon is sweet with hints of vanilla and oak, and with the iced tea it won’t knock you off your feet too quickly, ya know, Mad Men style - Straight up! As far as brands? Maker’s Mark may have the corner on branding, but there are many good bourbons out there. We’ve been getting Buffalo Trace and it’s very good. But whatever brand you get it will probably be from Kentucky! Happy 4th to ya’ll!

Bourbon Iced Tea with Mint

6 cups of water
6 black tea bags
1/2 cup sugar
Fresh mint
1 lemon
Ice as needed
Bourbon

Bring water to a boil in saucepan, add the tea bags and remove from heat, let steep for 3 minutes. Remove the tea bags, stir in the sugar and set aside to cool. Add a few slices of lemon and a couple sprigs of fresh mint to the tea and muddle with a wooden spoon. Strain into a pitcher.

Fill each glass with ice, add a shot of bourbon and fill with tea. Garnish with lemon and mint.