This makes the best gin and tonic ever.
4 C water
2-1/2 C sugar (or more, to taste)
1/2 C (about 2 stalks) finely chopped lemongrass
Zest and juice of 2 limes
3 T powdered cinchona bark
3 T citric acid
1 t juniper berries
1/2 t peppercorns
Bring water to boil in a saucepan. Add sugar and stir until dissolved. Reduce heat to medium-low.
Add the lime zest (reserving the juice) and spices. Simmer for 30 minutes. Remove from heat and allow it to cool. Strain the mixture twice and then add the lime juice. Store in the refrigerator in a sealed bottle; keeps for up to 6 weeks.