Minty Pimm's Cup

Directions

1. 1
   Bring 1/2 cup sugar, the mint leaves, and 1/2 cup water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. 2
   Remove from the heat and steep for 20 minutes.
3. 3
   Strain the liquid through a fine sieve into a small bowl.
4. 4
   Press the leaves to extract all juices.
5. 5
   Cool to room temperature.
6. 6
   Pour the Pimm's No.
7. 7
   1, lime juice, and the reserved mint syrup into a medium pitcher; stir to combine and chill for at least 1 hour.
8. 8
   Mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar and the lime zest together and spread out a 1/4-inch-thick layer on a small plate.
9. 9
   Rub the rims of six 8-ounce glasses with a lime wedge and dip the rims in the sugar mixture.
10. 10
    Fill each glass about halfway with ice cubes and one of the lime wedges.
11. 11
    Divide the Pimm's mixture among the prepared glasses.
12. 12
    Top off each glass with 1/3 cup ginger beer and a splash of seltzer.
13. 13
    Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and serve immediately.