The Long Island Iced Tea is one of the most iconic mixed drinks, known for its bold mix of spirits and refreshing cola finish. Despite its name, this cocktail doesn’t contain any tea its color and balance of flavors simply resemble it. Made with vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec, it’s surprisingly smooth thanks to the addition of lemon juice and simple syrup. Finished with cola and a lemon wedge, it’s a lively drink that fits perfectly at parties, happy hours, or summer gatherings. Strong, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s a true bar classic.

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Tasting Notes

The Long Island Iced Tea is known for its bold, complex flavor and smooth balance despite its multiple spirits. Vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec blend seamlessly, creating a strong yet surprisingly approachable base. Fresh lemon juice brings tart brightness, while simple syrup rounds out the sharp edges. Cola ties everything together, adding sweetness and a caramel-like depth that makes the drink taste less spirit-forward than it really is. Garnished with a lemon wedge, this cocktail offers citrus aroma, gentle sweetness, and a long, smooth finish. It’s both refreshing and potent, ideal for those who enjoy layered cocktails.

Equipment and Glassware

The Long Island Iced Tea requires only a few essential tools. A jigger ensures accurate measurement of the multiple spirits, which is important for maintaining balance. A bar spoon is used to stir and blend the ingredients evenly in the glass. A citrus juicer or reamer is helpful for fresh lemon juice, which enhances the cocktail’s brightness. No shaker is necessary, as the drink is built directly in the glass. The ideal serving vessel is a highball or Collins glass, which holds both the spirits and cola while leaving room for ice. A paring knife will be useful for slicing garnish.

Ingredients

3/4 ounce vodka
3/4 ounce rum
3/4 ounce gin
3/4 ounce tequila
3/4 ounce triple sec
3/4 ounce lemon juice
3/4 ounce simple syrup
Splash of cola
Lemon slice (for garnish)

Instructions

Fill a shaker with ice.
Pour in the vodka, rum, gin, tequila, triple sec, and sweet and sour mix.
Shake well.
Strain into a highball or hurricane glass filled with ice.
Top with a splash of cola for color.
Garnish with a lemon slice.

Pro Tips

Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for better brightness.
Build the drink directly in the glass for ease.
Stir gently to mix without losing cola’s fizz.
Use plenty of ice to keep the cocktail cold.
Adjust cola amount to your sweetness preference.
Choose quality spirits for smoother balance.
Chill the glass beforehand for added refreshment.

When to Serve

The Long Island Iced Tea is best suited for lively gatherings, casual parties, and summer events. Its high-proof nature and balanced flavor make it a popular choice when serving groups, as it delivers both strength and refreshment. The cocktail’s approachable taste makes it appealing even for those who may not typically drink spirit-heavy cocktails. It pairs well with bar foods like nachos, sliders, or fried appetizers. Serve it at outdoor cookouts, beach days, or festive nights out. With its reputation as a party favorite, the Long Island Iced Tea works best in social settings where energy and fun are the focus.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Vodka

Tito’s Handmade Vodka
Grey Goose
Ketel One
Absolut
Smirnoff

White Rum

Bacardi Superior
Don Q Cristal
Mount Gay Silver
Havana Club Añejo Blanco
Plantation 3 Stars

Gin

Bombay Sapphire
Tanqueray
Beefeater
The Botanist
Hendrick’s

Tequila (Blanco)

Espolòn Blanco
Patrón Silver
Don Julio Blanco
Casamigos Blanco
El Jimador Blanco

Triple Sec

Cointreau
Combier
Luxardo Triplum
Bols Triple Sec
Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao

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