Start by making the syrup: combine the sugar, water, cinnamon and ginger (I don’t bother peeling it) in a saucepan (1-quart is fine). Bring it to a boil over medium heat, and then turn the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes. Let it cool so the flavors can steep and infuse fully into the syrup before straining through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher or container.