2 C. water

1 C. sugar

4 whole allspice

4 whole cloves

1 stick cinnamon

1 T. chopped crystallized ginger

1 pinch grated nutmeg

1 C. fresh lemon juice, (about 8 lemons)

1 C. club soda, or seltzer water, chilled

Sprig mint, for garnish, (optional)

 

Remove rind in pieces from lemon with swivel-bladed vegetable peeler; avoid any bitter white pith. Combine water, sugar, lemon rind, allspice, cloves, cinnamon stick, crystallized ginger and nutmeg in small saucepan. Bring to simmering; simmer, covered, for 20 minutes. Strain into pitcher and chill; discard solids. To serve, stir in lemon juice and club soda. Serve over crushed ice. Garnish with mint sprigs, if you wish.