How To Make The Perfect Long Island Iced Tea

Join me as we unlock the secrets to crafting the perfect Long Island Iced Tea, a cocktail that masterfully masquerades as a simple drink yet packs a delightful punch.

Do You Remember The First Long Island Iced Tea That You Tried?

I don’t remember the first one I ever tried but I do recall the first one I witnessed a friend trying. 

I was pregnant with my Son and was out with friends. One of the ladies next to us ordered a Long Island Iced tea from the bartender. My friend promptly ordered one for herself while I got a Ginger Ale. 

Fast forward to a little while later and after one glass of this cocktail she was LOADED! The rest of this story I am sure you can figure out.

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What Is The Story Behind Long Island Iced Tea?

My grandfather used to tell us some amazing stories about the prohibition era. My ears perk up every time I hear anything related to it. So I investigated this wonderfully potent drink and where it came from.

The story has it that the Long Island Iced Tea was created in a small town in Tennessee called Kingsport. In the 1920’s a man named Charlie Bishop invented this tricky ‘potent’ sipper.

You see this was during Prohibition and the creation he made would appear to look like iced tea but was a powerful cocktail with five liquors hidden behind that amber hue (helped by whiskey and maple syrup).

Now let’s jump ahead to the 1970s when a bartender named Robert Butt created a similar drink but omitted the whiskey and syrup. He added only clear spirits and then added triple sec, sour mix, and a splash of Cola. 

Both of these stories have merit and have led us to how we can create our own 21st-century Long Island Iced Tea that we know and love today.

Gathering the Ingredients

To begin our journey toward the perfect Long Island Iced Tea, the first step is gathering all the necessary ingredients. 

Each element plays a crucial role in creating this iconic cocktail, from the bold spirits to the zesty citrus. 

I don’t personally recommend using ‘well’ liquor because I don’t normally drink it myself. The flavors will be so much richer when you choose the proper ingredients.

You may already have some of these ingredients in your home bar like vodka, light rum, tequila, and gin.

Add a quick trip to the store to purchase Cointreau, lemon juice, simple syrup, and cola. Now you have everything you need to craft a drink that will impress even the most discerning of palates. 

Renee’s Perfect Long Island Iced Tea Recipe

Long Island Iced Tea Ingredients

1 ounce Tangueray Gin

1 ounce Bacardi Superior White Rum

1 ounce Jose Cuervo Especial Tequila

1 ounce Ketel One Vodka

1 ounce Cointreau

1 ounce fresh lemon juice

½ ounce of simple syrup

2 ounces of Cola (I prefer Coke)

1 slice of lemon for garnish and a few slices for the drink.

In a cocktail shaker add all ingredients and stir with a cocktail spoon. Pour into a Pint Glass filled with ice and a few slices of lemon. Add a lemon slice for garnish on the rim and serve. (I have linked my favorite pint glasses below)

By carefully measuring each ingredient in the correct proportion, we can ensure that every taste of your cocktail will be a harmonious blend of boldness and subtlety. 

Mixing Techniques for Perfection

Once we have measured our ingredients in the proper ratios, it’s time to focus on the mixing techniques that will elevate our Long Island Iced Tea to perfection. 

Whether you prefer a gentle stir (as I do) to maintain clarity or a vigorous shake for a frothy texture, the technique you choose will impact the overall taste and presentation of your cocktail.

Sample each mixing method and see what method you and your crew choose!

Presentation and Garnishes

To truly elevate your Long Island Iced Tea, consider the presentation and garnishes that will add both visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor to your cocktail. 

A classic garnish for this iconic drink is a wedge of lemon or lime on the rim of the glass, adding a pop of color and citrus aroma to each sip. I prefer the lemon but have substituted a lime wedge on occasion.

Tips for Serving and Enjoying Your Long Island Iced Tea

When it comes to serving and enjoying your perfectly crafted Long Island Iced Tea, there are a few key tips to remember. 

Try to serve your cocktail in a chilled pint glass to maintain the optimal temperature and prevent dilution from ice melting too quickly. This will ensure that you can savor every drop of the complex blend of flavors in your drink.

I wrote a post a while back about How To Make The Perfect Cocktail Ice. This can ensure you have great ice for any cocktail.

Another tip is to stir or gently shake your Long Island Iced Tea before serving to mix all the ingredients evenly. 

This will help to balance out the flavors and create a harmonious drinking experience. Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors of the different spirits in your cocktail before taking your first sip.

Lastly, don’t rush through your drink – take your time to savor each sip and appreciate the layers of flavors as they evolve on your palate. 

Enjoy the refreshing citrus notes, the subtle sweetness, and the lingering kick of alcohol in each taste. Remember, this drink is potent and will knock you on your butt if not careful.

I have created a Cocktail Journal to help you save all of your favorite drink recipes as I am sure this one will be. Check it out below!

Now It’s Your Turn!

So now that you have the information, it is time to try this recipe for yourself. The key for me is the quality ingredients, precise measurements, and your own personal flair.

So, gather your spirits, squeeze those lemons, and get ready to mix a glass of this iconic cocktail that promises to enliven your taste buds and wow your crowd!

Cheers to the timeless allure of a perfectly mixed Long Island Iced Tea!