The Cherry Long Island Iced Tea is a bold, fruit-forward version of the classic party drink. It keeps the core mix of vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec, but swaps the cola for cherry soda or cherry juice to add a sweet, slightly tart twist. The result is strong but smooth, with the cherry flavor softening the edges of all that booze. It’s bright in both flavor and color, making it a fun choice for get-togethers, game nights, or any time you want something with a little extra punch. Serve over ice with a cherry on top and you’re set.

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Tasting Notes

The Cherry Long Island Iced Tea is a bold and well-balanced cocktail that blends the smoothness of citrus and sweetness with the punch of multiple spirits. Featuring vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and orange liqueur, this drink gets an upgrade with fresh muddled cherries, adding a juicy, slightly tart contrast. The cherry cola enhances the depth with its caramelized richness, creating a smooth yet refreshingly strong sip.

Despite its potent mix, the flavors meld seamlessly for a surprisingly easy-to-drink cocktail. Served over ice and garnished with cherries and a lemon wedge, it’s a perfect choice for those who love a flavorful, fruit-forward twist on a classic.

Equipment and Glassware

To make a Cherry Long Island Iced Tea, you’ll need a muddler to extract the juices from the cherries, a cocktail shaker for proper mixing, a jigger for precise measurements, and a strainer to ensure a smooth pour. A highball or Collins glass is ideal for serving, allowing room for ice and cherry cola.

Ingredients

0.5 oz light rum
0.5 oz tequila
0.5 oz vodka
0.5 oz gin
0.5 oz orange liqueur
0.5 oz lemon juice
0.5 oz lime juice
2 oz cherry cola
6 cherries muddled

Instructions

Mix the Cocktail: Add vodka, gin, light rum, tequila, orange liqueur, lemon juice, and lime juice to the shaker.
Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
Strain and Serve: Strain into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.
Top with Cola: Pour in the cherry cola and stir gently to mix.
Garnish (Optional): Add a cherry or a lemon wedge for an extra touch.

Pro Tips

Use fresh cherries for the best natural sweetness and flavor. If out of season, a high-quality cherry syrup or cherry liqueur (like Luxardo) can enhance the taste.
Muddle the cherries gently—too much pressure can release bitterness from the skins.
If you prefer a stronger cherry flavor, substitute ½ oz of cherry liqueur for part of the orange liqueur.
Chill the glass beforehand to keep the cocktail cool longer.
Pour the cola slowly to preserve carbonation and maintain a smooth balance.

When to Serve

The Cherry Long Island Iced Tea is a great party cocktail, making it ideal for summer barbecues, rooftop gatherings, happy hours, and nights out with friends. Its sweet, citrusy, and strong profile makes it a hit at holiday celebrations or anytime you want a fun and boozy refreshment.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

For vodka, go with Tito’s, Grey Goose, or Absolut. Tanqueray or Bombay Sapphire make great choices for gin, while Bacardi Superior is a solid pick for light rum. Espolón Blanco or Patrón Silver work well for tequila, and Cointreau or Grand Marnier are excellent options for orange liqueur. Classic Cherry Coca-Cola will provide the best cola flavor.

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