Torino Julep
Bruise mint in julep cup, rub against inside of the cup and discard, add other ingredients with crushed ice and swizzle, top with mint sprig.
- Diddlin' Dora — Amontillado Sherry, Sweet vermouth, Pimm's No. 1 Cup, Fernet Branca, Maraschino Liqueur, Orange peel, Nutmeg
- Prizefighter — Fernet Branca, Sweet vermouth, Simple syrup, Lemon juice, Mint, Lemon, Salt
- Royal Flush (Ran Duan) — Sweet vermouth, Crème de Cacao, Fernet Branca, Absinthe, Cherry
- Fernando — Bianco Vermouth, Fernet Branca, Galliano, Mint
- Coley Cobbler — Sweet vermouth, Fernet Branca, Gin, Demerara syrup, Orange
I would start with a teaspoon for mouthfeel and balance and add more to taste, though I agree that 1/2 oz is overkill.
FrogPrincess on eGullet reports that even 1/4oz of syrup is plenty and perhaps none even better.