Peel and grate or thinly slice fresh ginger
Add ginger, water, and sugar to a saucepan
Bring to a gentle simmer and stir until the sugar dissolves
Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes
Remove from heat and let the ginger syrup cool
Strain the syrup into a container
Add lemon or lime juice if desired
Mix the syrup with chilled sparkling water or club soda
Stir gently
Serve over ice if desired