Verjus Cucumber Cooler

1. Muddle the Base

1. Place the cucumber slices and fresh mint leaves directly into the base of the highball glass.
2. Pour in the agave syrup and fresh lime juice.
3. Gently press the cucumber and mint with a muddler or the end of a rolling pin for 5 to 10 seconds to release their fresh juices and aromas without tearing the mint to shreds.

2. Build and Stir

1. Add the verjus to the glass.
2. Fill the glass generously with ice cubes, weaving a thin cucumber ribbon around the inside edge.
3. Top with chilled sparkling water.
4. Stir gently from the bottom up with a bar spoon to combine the ingredients while keeping the carbonation lively.

3. Garnish and Serve

1. Slap a sprig of fresh mint between your palms to release its aromatic oils and tuck it alongside the ice at the top of the glass.