• Blackberry Syrup:In a small saucepan, combine blackberries, sugar, water and lime and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally while squishing the blackberries with the back of your spoon. Simmer until sauce has thickened, about 10 minutes.
• Remove from heat and place a mesh strainer over a small bowl and press the sauce through the strainer. You'll end up with around a tablespoon of jam - set it aside and save it for breakfast!
• Let the strained sauce cool completely, at room temperature or in the fridge (to speed it up). If you cool it in the fridge, you'll just need to give it a good stir to loosen it up before you add it to your drinks.

Julep Preparation method #1:

• Dividing evenly between two old fashioned glasses, pour your blackberry syrup into the bottom of each glass and top with mint leaves. Gently muddle the mint leaves, being careful not to rip them apart.
• Add bourbon and crushed ice, and gently stir to combine. Add a squeeze of lime, a few blackberries, and garnish with mint leaves and a lime wedge.

Julep Preparation method #2:

• Dividing evenly between two old fashioned glasses, pour half of your blackberry syrup into the bottom of each glass and top with mint leaves. Gently muddle the mint leaves, being careful not to rip them apart.
• In a shaker, combine ice, the other half of your blackberry syrup, and bourbon and shake well to combine.
• Divide evenly between your two glasses, add a squeeze of lime, a few blackberries, and garnish with mint leaves and a lime wedge.
• Enjoy (responsibly)!