Peach Nectarine Juice

Nectarine-infused simple syrup sweetens our invigorating white peach juice. Add club soda for a little fizz or Prosecco to create a Bellini.

¾ cup sugar
4 (1") strips lemon zest
1 lemon, freshly squeezed
1 white nectarine
4 lb white peaches, peeled, halved, pitted, and cut into large chunks
Prosecco or club soda, chilled

Bring sugar, lemon zest, and 2¼ cups water to a boil in a medium pot, stirring to dissolve sugar. Cook until a syrup forms, about 5 minutes.

Reduce to a simmer. Add nectarine; cook until syrup turns pale pink, about 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer nectarine to a plate to cool. Transfer syrup to an airtight container; refrigerate about 1 hour.

Peel nectarine, and cut it into large chunks; discard pit. Transfer nectarine to a large bowl. Add peaches and lemon juice to bowl.

Using your hands or a potato masher, mash to extract as much juice as possible. Lightly press through a sieve into another bowl; discard solids. Stir in cooled syrup. Juice can be refrigerated up to 3 days.

Serve over ice with Prosecco or club soda if desired.

Makes 1 quart.