Grab your cherries, bourbon, sugar, lemon, and any other ingredients you plan to use. This makes the process smoother. Measure everything out and have it at your fingertips.

In a sturdy glass or cocktail shaker, place the fresh, pitted cherries along with the superfine cane sugar and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Using a muddler, a fork, or even the back of a spoon, press down on the cherries. You’re aiming to release their juices without pulverizing them completely. This creates a sweet and tangy base.

Pour in ¼ teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. This will add a pleasing aroma and flavor profile. Next, you’ll want to add the bourbon. Use a shot glass to measure out 1.5 oz and pour it directly into your muddled cherry mixture. Give it a gentle stir to combine these flavors.

Add fresh ice cubes to your glass. Fill it generously, making sure the ice is above the mixture. It keeps the drink chilled and refreshing, especially on a hot day.

Pour ¼ cup (or more, depending on how fizzy you like it) of sparkling soda water over the ice. This is where the drink gets its effervescence. Stir gently to combine, ensuring you maintain the bubbles.

If you’re in the mood for a little complexity, add a dash of Angostura bitters on the top. Lastly, garnish with a small sprig of fresh mint. This not only looks stunning but also adds a refreshing aroma every time you take a sip.