Bourbon Sweet Tea

Bourbon Sweet Tea is smooth, laid-back, and made for slow sipping. It combines the deep, oaky flavor of bourbon with the mellow sweetness of classic iced tea. A splash of lemon or a touch of simple syrup adds a little brightness, but the focus stays on that easy, Southern-style charm. It’s the kind of drink you bring to porch hangs, barbecues, or lazy weekends when you just want something simple and satisfying. If you like your cocktails strong but not fussy, Bourbon Sweet Tea delivers with comfort and a little kick.

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Tasting Notes

This Bourbon Sweet Tea drink is smooth, mellow, and slightly sweet with a touch of citrus. The bourbon brings in warmth and depth, while the Arnold Palmer tea (half sweet tea, half lemonade) keeps it light and refreshing. Honey syrup adds natural sweetness that’s softer than sugar, and the citrus bitters give it a subtle zing. Muddled mint adds a cool, fresh note that balances the richer flavors. It’s a relaxed, easygoing drink with just enough complexity to keep it interesting. Think classic sweet tea with a bourbon twist comforting but a little bit bold.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a muddler to press the mint leaves, a shaker or mixing glass, a jigger for accurate measuring, and a strainer for a clean pour. A bar spoon is useful if you want to stir instead of shake. Serve in a tall glass like a highball or a sturdy mason jar over ice. A small citrus knife helps with prepping lemon wedges for garnish. The drink builds easily and works well in clear glassware that shows off the tea’s warm amber color with pops of green from the mint.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz bourbon whiskey
• 3.5 oz Arnold Palmer tea (half lemonade, half tea)
• 0.5 oz honey syrup
• 2 dashes citrus bitters
• 4 mint leaves
• Lemon wheel and mint sprig, for garnish

Instructions

• Add mint leaves and honey syrup to a shaker and gently muddle.
• Pour in bourbon, Arnold Palmer tea, and citrus bitters.
• Fill with ice and shake lightly.
• Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
• Garnish with a lemon wheel and a sprig of mint.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh mint and gently muddle to avoid bitterness.
• Make honey syrup by mixing equal parts honey and warm water.
• Chill your Arnold Palmer ahead of time for a colder drink.
• Add more honey syrup if your tea is unsweetened.
• Use clear ice for a cleaner look.
• Try a flavored citrus bitters (like orange) for a subtle twist.
• A large lemon wedge adds both garnish and optional squeeze.
• For a lighter version, use half the bourbon and top with soda water.

When to Serve

This Bourbon Sweet Tea cocktail is perfect for warm days, casual get-togethers, or backyard BBQs. It’s a solid happy hour drink or something to sip while relaxing on the porch. With its easygoing flavor and smooth finish, it also fits well with brunch or picnic menus. The bourbon gives it just enough kick to feel like a proper cocktail, while the tea keeps it mellow and familiar. It’s great for people who like bourbon but want something lighter and great for people who like tea but want something with a little extra.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Bourbon Whiskey:

• Maker’s Mark (smooth and slightly sweet)
• Bulleit Bourbon (bold and balanced)
• Elijah Craig Small Batch (rich and warm)
• Wild Turkey 101 (stronger with good spice)

Similar Cocktails

• Brazilian Lemonade Mojito
• Mango Bourbon Lemonade
• Matcha Mint Julep
• Matcha Green Tea Cocktail
• Summer Sour