Bring water to a boil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Once boiling, remove from heat.

Dunk tea bags in the water a few times to fully hydrate the bag, then leave submerged with strings over the lip of the pot. 

Steep for 5 minutes, then remove bags and throw discard. 

Add sugar and stir until sugar is completely dissolved.

Pour the tea into a 1-gallon pitcher. 

Add 3 quarts of water and stir to combine.

Refrigerate for four hours minimum.

Add mint or lemon when serving.