The mojito is an island-invented, inspired-by-the-southern-created-julep, turned-southern-favorite drink. If you own a big antebellum home with huge front lawn and wraparound porch, then you're probably sitting in a rocking chair right now, sipping on a mojito or julep.

Traditionally flavored by rum, lime, and mint, this mojito is kicked up a notch with a recipe that substitutes the lime with lemon and the mint with basil. On top of that, you'll throw in a bunch of peaches for good measure. Together, it all creates a refreshing, flavorful cocktail, perfect for those hot summer days—and hot fall days we're likely in for as well.

Muddling the fruit and the basil in the bottom of the glass helps disperse essential oils and flavors into the drink. Just don't get too energetic with your muddling or you may just shatter your glass.

Peach basil mojito

INGREDIENTS

• 6 peach slices, 2 reserved
• 2 basil leaves
• 1 ounce lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fine sugar
• 2 ounces white rum
• Crushed ice
• Sparkling water, chilled

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Muddle the peach slices and basil leaves in the bottom of a glass with the lemon juice and sugar.
2. Pour in the rum and stir. Top the glass with crushed ice and then fill the glass with sparkling water. Give the drink a couple quick stirs. Top with the remaining peach slices as a garnish (or snack).