Festive Pomegranate Mojito Cocktail

FESTIVE POMEGRANATE MOJITO COCKTAIL
Lime wedge and pomegranate arils, to serve
¼ c. rum
¼ c. pomegranate juice
2 T. fresh lime juice
2 T. Mint Simple Syrup (recipe below)
Cold sparkling mineral water, as needed
Fresh mint sprig, garnish
MINT SIMPLE SYRUP:
2/3 c. sugar
2/3 c. water
1 oz. fresh mint leaves

1. MINT SIMPLE SYRUP: In small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Cook over medium heat, stir frequently, just until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat.
2. Tear mint leaves and place in heatproof bowl. Pour simple syrup over leaves and let cool to room temp, stir occasionally. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use (at least 30 minute.) The longer mint leaves stay in syrup, stronger the mint flavor.)
3. In 8 oz. glass, place lime wedge and pomegranate arils. Fill glass halfway with ice.
4. In shaker with ice, place rum, pomegranate juice, lime juice and simple syrup.
5. Shake lightly to chill and combine.
6. Pour into prepared glass and add desired amount of cold sparkling water.
7. Garnish with mint sprig.