Long Island Iced Tea

Long Island Iced Tea

Alessandro Scire Calabrisotto

 

Long Island Iced Tea: A Potent and Refreshing Classic

Brief Introduction

The Long Island Iced Tea is one of the most infamous cocktails, known for its deceptive smoothness despite packing a strong alcoholic punch. Combining multiple spirits—vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec—with lemon juice, simple syrup, and cola, this drink resembles iced tea in both color and taste, making it a popular choice for those seeking a flavorful yet high-proof beverage.

History of the Long Island Iced Tea

The origins of the Long Island Iced Tea are contested, with two primary theories competing for authenticity.

One version attributes the drink’s creation to the 1920s Prohibition era, when bootleggers and home bartenders sought creative ways to disguise high-proof cocktails as innocent-looking beverages. It is believed that a bartender known as "Old Man Bishop" from Long Island, Tennessee, first mixed the drink using whiskey and maple syrup instead of today’s common ingredients. His son later refined the recipe, bringing it closer to the modern version.

However, the most widely accepted version of the story credits Robert "Rosebud" Butt, a bartender at the Oak Beach Inn on Long Island, New York. In 1972, Butt participated in a competition to create a new mixed drink using triple sec. His creation—a combination of five different spirits topped with cola—was an instant hit, and soon, the Long Island Iced Tea became a staple of bars and nightclubs across America.

The drink’s appeal lies in its balance of citrus, sweetness, and strong alcoholic content, making it both refreshing and deceptively potent. Despite containing multiple liquors, it doesn’t taste overwhelmingly strong, leading to its reputation as a dangerously smooth cocktail.

Over the years, the Long Island Iced Tea has gained both praise and notoriety. While some bartenders appreciate its ability to showcase balance in high-proof mixology, others see it as a party drink with a reputation for quick intoxication. Regardless of perspective, it remains one of the most popular cocktails worldwide, consistently appearing on bar menus and in pop culture.

Recipe: How to Make a Long Island Iced Tea

The Long Island Iced Tea is easy to make and requires precise measurements to maintain its smooth yet powerful character. Here’s the classic recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 15 ml (0.5 oz) Vodka

  • 15 ml (0.5 oz) White Rum

  • 15 ml (0.5 oz) Gin

  • 15 ml (0.5 oz) Tequila

  • 15 ml (0.5 oz) Triple Sec

  • 25 ml (0.85 oz) Fresh Lemon Juice

  • 15 ml (0.5 oz) Simple Syrup

  • Splash of Cola

  • Garnish: Lemon Wedge

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: Add all the spirits, lemon juice, and simple syrup into a shaker filled with ice.

  2. Shake: Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds to ensure proper mixing and chilling.

  3. Strain & Serve: Strain into a highball or Collins glass filled with ice.

  4. Top with Cola: Pour a splash of cola over the top and stir gently.

  5. Garnish: Add a lemon wedge for an extra touch of citrus.

Tips for Perfection:

  • Use high-quality spirits to ensure a smoother taste, as the blend of multiple liquors can be overwhelming with lower-grade ingredients.

  • Adjust the cola amount to preference—some prefer a lighter splash, while others like a darker tea-like color.

  • Serve in a tall glass filled with plenty of ice to keep the drink cold and balanced.

Additional Recommendations

Variations:

  • Texas Tea: Add bourbon for an even stronger kick.

  • Tokyo Tea: Substitute triple sec for Midori for a green hue and a melon-flavored twist.

  • Long Beach Iced Tea: Replace cola with cranberry juice for a tart and refreshing alternative.

Pairings:

The Long Island Iced Tea’s citrusy and sweet profile pairs well with bold and salty foods. Try it with:

  • Spicy Tacos: The drink’s sweetness balances out heat from Mexican cuisine.

  • BBQ Ribs: The caramelized flavors of barbecue contrast deliciously with the crisp cola finish.

  • Loaded Nachos: A perfect party pairing, as the drink cuts through rich cheese and savory toppings.

Presentation:

  • Serve in a highball or Collins glass for a traditional look.

  • Use a long straw to stir and enjoy the perfect sip.

  • Garnish with a lemon wedge or mint sprig for added freshness.

Curiosity: A Fun Fact About the Long Island Iced Tea

Despite its name, the Long Island Iced Tea contains no actual tea—the drink gets its name from its similar appearance to a classic glass of iced tea. Its deceptive smoothness has led to its reputation as a "dangerous" cocktail that can sneak up on drinkers due to its high alcohol content and easy-drinking nature.

Sources


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