The Raspberry Tea Cocktail is smooth, fruity, and refreshingly easy to drink. It combines the subtle flavor of black or green tea with sweet-tart raspberry, usually with a splash of vodka, gin, or bourbon depending on the style. A bit of lemon juice or simple syrup helps balance the flavor, and it’s often served over ice for a cool, laid-back feel. Whether you use fresh raspberries, syrup, or flavored tea, this cocktail is perfect for afternoon gatherings, picnics, or casual evenings. It’s light, flavorful, and brings a cozy twist to classic iced tea.

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Tasting Notes

The Raspberry Tea Cocktail is a light, fruity, and effervescent drink that’s perfect for relaxed sipping. Vodka provides a clean, smooth spirit base, while raspberry iced tea brings sweet berry flavor with a subtle herbal undertone. Ginger ale adds a lively sparkle and gentle spiciness, balancing the sweetness beautifully. A splash of fresh lime juice brightens the entire cocktail, giving it a crisp, refreshing edge. Garnished with a couple of fresh raspberries, this drink is slightly sweet, slightly tangy, and irresistibly refreshing—ideal for easygoing afternoons, casual get-togethers, or warm, sunny days.

Equipment and Glassware

This simple cocktail requires just a few basic tools. Use a jigger for accurate measurements to ensure the perfect balance of tea, citrus, and fizz. A bar spoon will help stir the ingredients together gently without losing the ginger ale’s lively bubbles. Serve in a highball glass or Collins glass filled with ice to keep the drink chilled and highlight its vibrant color. A cocktail pick or skewer is handy for presenting the fresh raspberries elegantly as a garnish. Chilling your glass beforehand adds an extra layer of refreshing sophistication.

Ingredients

1.5 oz vodka
1.5 oz raspberry iced tea
1.5 oz ginger ale
0.25 oz lime juice
2 fresh raspberries (for garnish)

Instructions

Build: Fill a glass with ice and add vodka, raspberry iced tea, and lime juice.
Top: Pour in ginger ale and stir gently to combine.
Garnish: Drop in a couple of fresh raspberries for a colorful finish.

Pro Tips

Use fresh-brewed raspberry iced tea if possible for the brightest flavor—store-bought versions like Pure Leaf Raspberry Tea also work well.
Opt for a smooth vodka like Tito’s, Ketel One, or Absolut to keep the cocktail crisp and clean.
Choose a spicy ginger ale like Fever-Tree, Canada Dry Bold, or Q Ginger Ale for an extra lively kick.
Adjust lime juice to taste if you prefer more or less tartness.
For a fancier presentation, freeze fresh raspberries into ice cubes or rim the glass with a bit of sugar for a sweet finish.

When to Serve

The Raspberry Tea Cocktail is ideal for afternoon sipping, brunches, backyard barbecues, picnics, or casual happy hours. Its easygoing, fruity flavor and refreshing effervescence make it a great choice for summer events, bridal showers, garden parties, and even poolside lounging. It’s light enough for daytime drinking but flavorful and stylish enough for early evening gatherings too. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply relaxing on the patio, this cocktail delivers effortless charm and refreshment.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

For vodka, select crisp, smooth brands like Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Absolut, or Grey Goose. For raspberry iced tea, choose fresh-brewed or high-quality bottled versions like Pure Leaf or Tejava Raspberry Tea for natural flavor. For ginger ale, go with Fever-Tree, Q Ginger Ale, or Canada Dry depending on your preferred level of spice. Use fresh organic limes for juicing and fresh raspberries for a vibrant, aromatic garnish that completes the look and flavor of the drink.

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