The Seventh Drink

We learned that this drink is a science experiment, or at least an educational experience. Here's some mint trivia:

Commonly used as an ingredient in and garnish for both food and cocktails, mint is a component of over 100 drinks. The essential oils in mint convince the brain that it is 7 to 13 degrees colder by binding with temperature sensor cells on the tongue, which gives the herb its reputation for refreshment. Muddling the leaves, as called for in a mojito, releases the herb's essential oils and fragrance into the drink.

We also realized that our Pampered Chef  wooden "mini tart shaper" is the perfect tool for mulling or "muddling" mint leaves. And "mulling" means gently crushing the leaves.

Mojito

Several sprigs of mint (about 8 leaves)
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 cup white grape juice (instead of rum)
Dash of rum extract
1/4 cup lemon juice (or juice of one lemon)
1 strip of lemon peel
Cracked ice
Soda water

Using an 8-ounce glass, mull mint with sugar. Add juices, extract and lemon peel and stir. Add ice and soda water to fill the glass.