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Granted, this isn't actually a Mardi Gras cocktail per se, however the ingredients are meant to give a nod to the South nonetheless. I actually stumbled upon it one day while looking for a Mint Julep recipe - this is just a slight variation of the original. It's now on my rotation of drinks to serve at a party because it always garners such positive response. Adjust the ingredients to suit your own personal taste, if desired.

Minted Bourbon
1 1/2 oz bourbon
1 oz sugar syrup (recipe can be found here)
2 tsp fresh-squeezed lemon juice
2-3 sprigs of fresh mint
Sparkling water or soda
Crushed ice

Muddle mint leaves with lemon juice. Add simple syrup, bourbon, and ice. Shake or stir until well mixed. Strain into a tall glass over ice, and top with sparkling water or soda. Garnish with mint leaves or a lemon wedge.