I grow mint in my garden for pretty much one reason and one reason only.
Mojitos.
Nothing beats an icy-cold, minty mojito on a hot summer day. This version brings another summer staple – juicy ruby-red bing cherries – into the scene. The result is a gorgeous scarlet cocktail of cherry, lime, and mint … how can you go wrong?
The best thing about mojitos are the little bites of refreshing mint you get through the straw now and then. This one gives you a bit of cherry here and there too. Perhaps bad for the teeth (might want to have your pocket mirror handy) … but good, oh so good, for the soul.
Make the simple syrup. Heat water and sugar over medium-low heat until sugar dissolves. Let cool slightly, then add to a blender along with the 3/4 cup bing cherries. Puree, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a small container or pitcher. Set aside.
In a large, sturdy glass, muddle together the lime halves, mint, and cherries until the lime juice has been released and the mint and cherries are well-smashed.
Stir in the cherry simple syrup and white rum.
Fill glass with ice and top off with club soda. Add a wide straw, garnish with a mint sprig and a cherry, and serve.