Cocktail: The Backyard

I call this drink The Backyard because it's made up of ingredients that remind me of my backyard as a child, specifically the juniper syrup, because we had a juniper tree; the mint leaves, which grew wild by the garage gate; and the smoked whiskey, since we barbecued out back frequently.

The Backyard

6-8 mint leaves
1 oz. juniper syrup (see recipe below)
1 1/2 oz. smoked whiskey
1 oz. lemon juice (juice from 1/2 fresh lemon)
2 oz. club soda

Add mint leaves and juniper syrup to shaker and muddle. Add ice, whiskey and lemon juice and shake until cold. Strain into lowball glass with ice. Top with club soda.

Juniper Syrup

1 tbsp. juniper berries
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup water

Gently crush juniper berries (a muddling tool works well). Add to medium saucepan with sugar and water. Bring to boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let mixture sit for about an hour minimum (up to 4 hours). Strain and keep in refrigerator.