Lemonade with Vodka Ginger Mint

Refreshing lemonade with a kick in the pants.

Syrup:
½ cup fresh mint, chopped
½ cup fresh ginger, peeled, chopped
1 cup sugar

Cocktail and Assembly:
1 bottle lemon flavoured vodka (750 mL)
2 cups lemon juice, freshly squeezed

To Serve:
lemon wheels and mint leaves

For the Syrup:
Bring mint, ginger, sugar, and 2 cups water to a simmer in a small saucepan over medium heat, whisking to dissolve sugar. Remove from heat and let sit 1 hour. Strain through a fine mesh sieve into a large measuring glass or a small bowl; let ginger mint syrup cool completely. Cover and chill until cold, at least 30 minutes.

For the Cocktail:
Combine vodka, lemon juice, ginger mint syrup, and 4 cups water in a punch bowl and stir well.

Ladle spiked lemonade into ice-filled glasses and garnish with lemon wheels and mint leaves.

Makes 8 servings.

Make Ahead: Syrup can be made 1 month ahead. Keep chilled.