Clean and dry the fresh mint.

Either remove a few ounces of the vodka and push the mint into the bottle or pour the vodka into another glass container (2 qt), add the mint.

Seal and store at room temperature for at least 3 days.

After the 3 days, remove the mint, discard it and seal the vodka.

In a medium sauce pan over medium heat, add the water, sugar, and roughly chopped ginger.

Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat, stirring occasionally allow it to simmer for at least 5 minutes or until the sugar has dissolved and the liquid has reduced slightly.

Remove from heat and allow to steep for 20 minutes.

Using a fine mesh strainer, drain the liquid and discard the ginger.

Store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.

In a cocktail shaker, add the mint infused vodka, the ginger simple syrup, and the sparkling water, cover and gently shake to combine, or stir it.

Add a few ice cubes to the copper mugs or glasses.

Pour into two copper mugs or glasses.

Garnish with the optional candied ginger and fresh mint.

Enjoy responsibly.