9 Best Alcoholic Tea Drinks (Iced Tea Cocktails)

Alcoholic beverages and tea have long been enjoyed separately, but have you ever considered combining the two? In this post, we’ve rounded up 9 of the best Alcoholic Tea Drinks for you to try at home.

Alcoholic tea drinks, also known as iced tea cocktails, offer a refreshing twist on traditional cocktails. These beverages provide a delightful balance between the soothing qualities of tea and the invigorating kick of alcohol. 

Best Alcoholic Tea Drinks

1. Long Island Iced Tea

If Long Island iced tea is your favorite party cocktail, you know that it doesn’t actually contain tea. Instead, this popular drink is a delicious combination of five kinds of alcohol, lemon juice, simple syrup, and cola!

2. Hot Toddy

A comforting and warm beverage, the hot toddy is made with hot brewed tea, whiskey, honey, and lemon juice. 

It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather.

3. Sweet Tea Vodka Lemonade

This drink is a refreshing combination of sweet tea, vodka, and lemonade. It’s popular in the southern United States and is often garnished with a lemon slice or mint sprig.

4. Earl Grey Martini

For tea and martini lovers, the Earl Grey Martini is a delightful choice. It usually includes gin, Earl Grey tea (infused or as a syrup), lemon juice, and sugar. 

5. Jasmine Fizz

This sparkling cocktail features jasmine tea, gin, honey, lemon juice, and club soda. It’s light, floral, and perfect for a summer gathering.

6. Green Tea Mojito

A twist on the classic mojito, this version incorporates green tea, white rum, mint leaves, lime juice, and caster sugar. 

It’s a refreshing and vibrant drink that combines the flavors of mint and green tea.

7. Thai Iced Tea Cocktail

Inspired by the traditional Thai beverage, this cocktail combines Thai tea with rum or vodka, condensed milk, and spices like cinnamon and star anise. 

It offers a unique blend of creamy sweetness and exotic flavors.

8. Raspberry Sweet Tea Smash

This fruity and refreshing drink combines raspberry-infused sweet tea with bourbon.

It’s a perfect choice for those who enjoy a balanced combination of sweetness and tanginess.

How To Make Alcoholic Tea At Home

• Select your tea: Choose a tea variety that complements the flavors you want to incorporate into your drink. Black tea, green tea, and herbal teas all work well.
• Brew the tea: Prepare the tea according to the instructions on the packaging. Use double the amount of tea leaves to achieve a more concentrated flavor that can stand up to the addition of alcohol.
• Sweeten and cool: If desired, add sweeteners such as sugar, honey, or syrups to the freshly brewed tea. Allow the tea to cool before proceeding.
• Mix in alcohol: Once the tea has cooled, add your preferred alcohol, such as vodka, rum, gin, or bourbon. Adjust the quantity to your taste preferences.
• Serve and garnish: Pour the alcoholic tea over ice and garnish with citrus slices, fresh herbs, or other complementary ingredients to enhance the visual appeal and flavor.

Alcoholic Tea Pairings

Pairing alcoholic tea drinks with complementary foods can enhance the overall taste experience. Consider these suggestions:

• Long Island Iced Tea: It pairs well with spicy foods like buffalo wings or nachos.
• Spiked Sweet Tea: This goes perfectly with grilled dishes, such as barbecue chicken or burgers.
• Peach Tea Sangria: Enjoy it with fresh fruits, cheese platters, or light salads.
• Earl Grey Martini: Pair it with chocolate desserts or savory appetizers.
• Green Tea Mojito: Match it with sushi, seafood, or light vegetarian dishes.

FAQs

How do I make a Long Island Iced Tea?

The recipe for a Long Island Iced Tea includes:

• vodka 
• rum
• tequila
• gin
• triple sec 
• lemon juice 
• simple syrup
• a splash of cola

Shake all the ingredients together and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lemon wedge.

What kind of alcohol is good in tea?

The choice of alcohol depends on personal preference. Vodka, rum, gin, and tequila are commonly used spirits in alcoholic tea drinks.

What is the alcohol content in spiked iced tea?

The alcohol content in spiked iced tea varies depending on the type and amount of alcohol used. It usually ranges between 10% to 20% ABV (alcohol by volume).

Are there any alcoholic tea brands available in the market?

Yes, there are several brands that offer ready-to-drink alcoholic tea beverages. These can be found in many liquor stores or online.

What are the different types of tea used in alcoholic tea drinks?

Alcoholic tea drinks can be made with various tea types, including black tea, green tea, herbal tea, or flavored teas like Earl Grey or jasmine.

How do I make a boozy Arnold Palmer?

• Combine equal parts of iced tea and lemonade, then add your preferred alcohol, such as vodka or bourbon. 
• Serve over ice and garnish with a lemon slice.

Can I use herbal tea in alcoholic tea recipes?

Yes, herbal teas can be used in alcoholic tea recipes. They can add unique flavors and aromas to your drinks.

What are some non-alcoholic alternatives to alcoholic tea drinks?

Non-alcoholic alternatives to alcoholic tea drinks include virgin versions of the cocktails, which omit the alcohol but retain the tea flavors. 

You can also explore mocktail recipes using ingredients like sparkling water, fruit juices, or flavored syrups.