Long Island iced tea

Long Island Iced Tea opens with a lively mix of citrus and cola, bright on the palate and smoothly layered. Each sip feels crisp, spirited, and surprisingly balanced, with a touch of sweetness that keeps the finish easy and inviting. Bold yet refreshing, it settles into the moment with effortless charm.

Glass

Collins glass

Prep Time

5 min

Difficulty

Easy

Alchol

Vodka

Ingredients

1 oz vodka

1 oz white rum

1 oz gin

1 oz tequila

1 oz triple sec

1 oz fresh lemon juice

1 oz simple syrup

Cola, to top

Garnish: Lemon wedge

Steps

Step 1

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then add vodka, gin, white rum, tequila, triple sec, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.

Step 2

Shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled and properly combined.

Step 3

Fill a tall glass with fresh ice and strain the mixture into the glass.

Step 4

Top with a splash of cola and stir gently to combine.

Step 5

Garnish with a lemon wedge and serve immediately.

Flavor Profile

boozy, citrusy, crisp, refreshing, strong, sweet

History

It is said this infamous drink first slipped into the spotlight in the restless American nightlife of the 1970s, when bold flavors and bigger personalities ruled the room. Legend paints the scene like a film set: a bartender, pressed for speed and showmanship, reached for a little of everything and created something that looked innocent but carried a dangerous wink. What began as a clever disguise soon became a party icon, whispered about from neon-lit bars to late-night afterparties. Some swear its rise was pure accident, others insist it was a stroke of rebellious genius. Either way, it entered the story like a charming troublemaker and never left quietly.

FAQ

What is in a Long Island Iced Tea?

A classic Long Island Iced Tea is made with vodka, gin, rum, tequila, triple sec, lemon juice, simple syrup, and a splash of cola. Even though it tastes balanced and slightly sweet, it contains several different spirits in one drink.

Does a Long Island Iced Tea actually contain tea?

No, it usually does not contain any tea at all. The drink gets its name from its amber color, which looks a bit like iced tea once the cola is added.

How strong is a Long Island Iced Tea?

It is considered a strong cocktail because it combines multiple liquors in one glass. Even though each spirit is used in a small amount, the total alcohol content is usually higher than many standard mixed drinks.

Can you make a Long Island Iced Tea less strong?

Yes, you can make it lighter by reducing the amount of spirits, adding more mixer, or serving it over extra ice. Some people also use a bit more lemon juice or cola to soften the flavor.

What does a Long Island Iced Tea taste like?

It tastes citrusy, slightly sweet, and smooth with a subtle cola finish. When it is well made, no single spirit should overpower the drink.

Yes, there are several popular twists. Common versions include the Texas Tea, which adds whiskey, and the Long Beach Iced Tea, which uses cranberry juice instead of cola for a fruitier taste.