This drink is superlative. And it is well, at this point, to remember that, as Voltaire put it, “The good is the enemy of the best.” Use the best bourbon you can afford, tender mint leaves for bruising, and very finely crushed ice. To make a Whiskey Smash, muddle ½ lemon, cut into quarters, with the mint and simple syrup.

Muddle in a chilled highball glass or silver julep cup:

Pour in:

Fill the glass with:

Stir once, and garnish with: