Peach Black Tea Punch Mocktail

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup raw sugar
• 1 cup water
• Peels from 2 lemons, removed in wide strips
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 whole allspice berries
• 6 cups strong brewed black tea, chilled
• 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup peach nectar, chilled
• 2 cups chilled sparkling water
• Ice, preferably one large block
• Lemon wheels and peach slices, for serving

Directions

1. Combine the raw sugar, water, lemon peels, cinnamon stick, and allspice berries in a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves, then remove from the heat and let the syrup steep for 15 minutes. Strain and chill.
2. In a large pitcher or punch bowl, stir together the chilled black tea, fresh lemon juice, peach nectar, and the cooled syrup. Taste and adjust with a little more lemon juice for brightness or peach nectar for softness.
3. Add a large block of ice or plenty of cubes to the bowl. Pour in the sparkling water just before serving and stir gently. Serve in glasses with lemon wheels and peach slices.