The Best Long Island Iced Tea

Creating a classic Long Island Iced Tea recipe is like crafting a tribute to one of the most infamous and strongest cocktails from the cocktail origin stories of New York. It’s a curious cocktail beloved by many, from college students to connoisseurs of high-end spirits, known for its potent blend of different liquors. Here’s how to make this iconic drink, which packs a punch with every sip, without containing any actual tea.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 ounce vodka (favorite vodka recommended)
• 1/2 ounce white rum (light rum for a smoother taste)
• 1/2 ounce silver tequila (or blanco tequila for authenticity)
• 1/2 ounce gin (choose high-quality to avoid harsh alcohol taste)
• 1/2 ounce triple sec (or orange liqueur for a citrusy depth)
• 3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 ounce simple syrup (can substitute with maple syrup for a richer sweetness)
• Splash of cola (Coca Cola for a classic touch, or ginger ale for a lighter twist)
• Ice cubes
• Lemon wedge and lime wheel for garnish

Equipment:

• Cocktail shaker
• Highball glass or hurricane glass for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Glass:
   • Fill a highball or hurricane glass with fresh ice cubes to chill.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, white rum, silver tequila, gin, and triple sec.
   • Add the fresh lemon juice and simple syrup to the shaker.
   • Fill the shaker with ice, covering the liquid completely.
3. Shake:
   • Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. The goal is to dilute the cocktail slightly while chilling it thoroughly.
4. Serve:
   • Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
   • Top with a splash of cola for the signature color and to add a sweet, refreshing finish that masks the strong alcohol flavor.
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
   • Garnish with a lemon wedge and a lime wheel on the rim of the glass.
   • Serve immediately and enjoy responsibly, as this cocktail is one of the strongest due to its combination of different spirits.

Choice of Spirits

When crafting a Long Island Iced Tea, the choice of spirits can greatly influence the overall quality and taste of the cocktail. This drink typically combines multiple types of liquor, so selecting high-quality spirits is key to creating a smooth, well-balanced drink. Here are some recommended options for each type of alcohol typically used in a Long Island Iced Tea:

Vodka

• Grey Goose: Known for its smoothness, distilled from French wheat.

• Ketel One: A premium vodka that offers a crisp and clean taste.

White Rum

• Bacardi Superior: A light and refined rum that mixes well without overpowering other flavors.
• Mount Gay Silver: Offers a subtle sweetness that can enhance the cocktail’s complexity.

Tequila

• Patrón Silver: High-quality tequila that is smooth with a slight citrus flavor.
• Espolòn Blanco: Known for its pure and robust agave flavor, it adds a nice kick.

Gin

• Bombay Sapphire: Infused with a selection of 10 botanicals, it’s aromatic and not too overpowering.
• Tanqueray: A classic gin that is both crisp and smooth, perfect for mixing.

Triple Sec (Orange Liqueur)

• Cointreau: Offers a clear, smooth orange flavor that is balanced and not too sweet.
• Grand Marnier: A blend of triple sec and cognac, adding a rich and slightly oaky note.

Note: This drink, a staple from the Prohibition era to TGI Fridays, is perfect for those looking to explore the depths of their liquor cabinet or impress guests with a cocktail that’s as storied as it is strong. It’s not suitable for those on a medically restrictive diet due to its high alcoholic content. Always enjoy in moderation to avoid those infamous “bad decisions” associated with this beloved drink.