Heat the water: Bring 4 cups of filtered water to a gentle simmer. Avoid a rolling boil to keep the floral notes smooth and not harsh.
Add hibiscus and aromatics: Turn off the heat.
Stir in the dried hibiscus (or tea bags). If using, add the cinnamon stick, ginger slices, and citrus peel.
Steep: Cover and let it steep for 10–15 minutes. For a bolder, tangier flavor, you can go up to 20 minutes.
Taste at the 10-minute mark and adjust.
Sweeten while warm: If using honey or sugar, stir it in now so it dissolves easily. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more if you prefer a softer tartness.
Strain and cool: Strain out the hibiscus and aromatics. Let the infusion cool to room temperature, about 20–30 minutes.
Chill: Pour into a glass pitcher and refrigerate until cold, at least 2 hours.
The flavor mellows and rounds out as it chills.
Serve: Fill glasses with ice and pour the hibiscus infusion over the top. Garnish with mint and a citrus slice for a fresh finish.