For each drink, put 6 to 8 mint leaves, 1 tablespoon simple syrup and crushed ice in the bottom of a tall glass. With the handle of a wooden spoon or with a wooden muddler, crush and mash the leaves to extract the flavor. Add two ounces vodka and shake several times. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a small mint sprig. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Yields: 4 drinks