The Long Island Iced Tea is believed to have been created in the 1970s by a bartender named Robert 'Rosebud' Butt at the Oak Beach Inn on Long Island, New York. The cocktail quickly gained popularity for its potent mix of spirits and its deceptive resemblance to a non-alcoholic iced tea. It is a favorite among party-goers and those who enjoy a strong, flavorful drink.
The Long Island Iced Tea is a complex blend of flavors, combining the sweetness of cola and sour mix with the boldness of multiple spirits. It is a strong, yet surprisingly smooth cocktail with a slightly bitter aftertaste.
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Twist #1: Tropical Island Tea
- Swap sour mix with pineapple juice
- Add a dash of coconut cream
- Garnish with a pineapple slice and a maraschino cherry
The tropical twist will make you feel like you're sipping on sunshine and sandy beaches. The pineapple's tang blends with coconut's creaminess for a vacation vibe.
Twist #2: Blue Long Island
- Replace cola with blue curacao
- Use a clear sour mix
- Garnish with a twist of orange peel
This electric blue variation is a showstopper, sure to turn heads and lift spirits. It's got a curacao kick that'll have you singing the blues, in the best way possible.
Twist #3: Peach Long Island Tea
- Replace triple sec with peach schnapps
- Garnish with a peach slice
- Add a splash of cranberry juice for a color twist
Get ready for a peachy keen twist that's as sweet as a summer fling. The peach schnapps and cranberry juice add a fruity punch that'll have your taste buds swinging from the trees!
What is the origin of the name 'Long Island Iced Tea'?
The cocktail was invented on Long Island, New York so it is named after its birthplace. The 'Iced Tea' part of the name comes from its resemblance to a glass of iced tea.
What types of glassware can I use if I don't have a Collins glass?
Any tall, slim glass would work as a substitute, such as a highball glass. This is to ensure the correct ratio of ingredients to ice.
Are there any non-alcoholic versions of the Long Island Iced Tea?
Yes, a non-alcoholic or 'virgin' version of this cocktail can be made by substituting non-alcoholic versions of the spirits and adding more cola or sour mix.
Is the Long Island Iced Tea popular worldwide?
Yes, the Long Island Iced Tea is a very popular cocktail worldwide, particularly in the United States, often found on menus in restaurants and bars.
What are some popular variations of the Long Island Iced Tea?
There are many variations of the Long Island Iced Tea with different mixers or spirits such as the Miami Iced Tea with peach schnapps and cranberry juice, or the Mexican Iced Tea with tequila and lime juice.