Calm Before the Storm

steps

1. Build the drink in a glass by muddling (without a lot of pressure) cucumber with mint leaves at the bottom of the glass. 
2. Add ice to ¾ full, then add lime juice and ginger syrup, and top with equal parts  Ale-8-One and sparkling water. 
3. Add more ice if necessary and garnish with a mint sprig and slice of cucumber.

*Ginger Syrup / Bring 4 cups sugar and 4 cups water to a gentle simmer.  Add 2 cups julienned ginger and a few jalapeño or cayenne peppers with seeds removed. Remove from heat after 10 minutes and let sit for 48 hours. Strain and keep chilled.