Mint Julep Punch

• 1 10-oz jar mint jelly
• 2 cups water
• 1 fifth bourbon
• 1 46-oz can unsweetened pineapple juice
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup lime juice
• Ice cubes
• 2 28-oz bottles lemon-lime carbonated beverage, chilled

Combine mint jelly and the first 2 cups water in saucepan. Stir over low heat till jelly melts. Cool. Add bourbon, pineapple juice, remaining water, and lime juice; chill. To serve, pour juice mixture over ice in punch bowl. Slowly pour in carbonated beverage, stirring with up-and-down motion. Garnish with lime slices and fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Yield: 22 cups