Use fresh mint leaves for the best possible flavor.
When muddling the mint, press the mint into the syrup with the muddler to express the aromas and flavors. You don’t want to break up or destroy the mint.
If you want a stronger mint flavor, add more mint leaves or you can add mint extract to taste.
You can make a mint julep non-alcoholic by substituting the bourbon with mint tea.
For a sweeter mint julep, add more simple syrup to taste.
If you want a less sweet mint julep, add less simple syrup or use seltzer water instead of tonic water.