The Long Island Iced Tea is a popular cocktail that has been a staple in bars and restaurants for decades. Its unique blend of five different types of liquor, mixed with cola and lemon juice, has made it a favorite among those who enjoy a strong and refreshing drink. But can you buy a Long Island Iced Tea, or do you have to make it yourself? In this article, we’ll explore the history of the Long Island Iced Tea, its ingredients, and where you can buy it.
A Brief History of the Long Island Iced Tea
The Long Island Iced Tea was invented in the 1970s by Robert “Rosebud” Butt, a bartender at the Oak Beach Inn in Long Island, New York. At the time, Butt was competing in a contest to create a new cocktail using triple sec, a type of orange-flavored liqueur. He experimented with different combinations of liquor and mixers until he came up with the perfect recipe.
The original recipe for the Long Island Iced Tea includes:
- 1 1/2 ounces vodka
- 1 1/2 ounces gin
- 1 1/2 ounces rum
- 1 1/2 ounces tequila
- 1 1/2 ounces triple sec
- 1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 ounce simple syrup
- 6 ounces cola
Butt’s creation was an instant hit, and the Long Island Iced Tea quickly became a popular drink throughout the United States.
Can You Buy a Long Island Iced Tea?
While you can’t buy a pre-made Long Island Iced Tea in most liquor stores, there are several options available for those who want to enjoy this cocktail without having to make it themselves.
Pre-Mixed Cocktails
In recent years, several companies have started selling pre-mixed cocktails, including the Long Island Iced Tea. These pre-mixed cocktails are available in bottles or cans and can be found in many liquor stores and supermarkets.
Some popular brands of pre-mixed Long Island Iced Tea include:
- Seagram’s
- Smirnoff
- Jose Cuervo
These pre-mixed cocktails are convenient and easy to use. Simply chill the bottle or can in the refrigerator, pour into a glass filled with ice, and serve.
Ready-to-Drink Cocktails
Ready-to-drink cocktails are another option for those who want to enjoy a Long Island Iced Tea without having to make it themselves. These cocktails are pre-mixed and packaged in individual servings, making them perfect for on-the-go.
Some popular brands of ready-to-drink Long Island Iced Tea include:
- Mike’s Hard
- Smirnoff Ice
- Bacardi Mixers
Ready-to-drink cocktails are widely available in liquor stores, supermarkets, and online.
Long Island Iced Tea Mix
If you want to make a Long Island Iced Tea at home but don’t want to buy all the individual ingredients, you can purchase a Long Island Iced Tea mix. These mixes usually include a combination of powdered drink mix and flavorings that you can add to vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and triple sec to make a Long Island Iced Tea.
Some popular brands of Long Island Iced Tea mix include:
- Mr. & Mrs. T
- Master of Mixes
- Finest Call
Long Island Iced Tea mixes are widely available in liquor stores and online.
Where to Buy a Long Island Iced Tea
If you’re looking to buy a Long Island Iced Tea, there are several options available. Here are a few places where you can find pre-mixed Long Island Iced Teas, ready-to-drink cocktails, and Long Island Iced Tea mixes:
- Liquor stores: Most liquor stores carry a selection of pre-mixed cocktails, including the Long Island Iced Tea.
- Supermarkets: Many supermarkets carry a limited selection of pre-mixed cocktails, including the Long Island Iced Tea.
- Online retailers: You can also buy pre-mixed Long Island Iced Teas, ready-to-drink cocktails, and Long Island Iced Tea mixes online from retailers like Amazon and Drizly.
- Bars and restaurants: If you’re looking to try a Long Island Iced Tea without having to make it yourself, you can always order one at a bar or restaurant.
Conclusion
The Long Island Iced Tea is a popular cocktail that has been a staple in bars and restaurants for decades. While you can’t buy a pre-made Long Island Iced Tea in most liquor stores, there are several options available for those who want to enjoy this cocktail without having to make it themselves. From pre-mixed cocktails to ready-to-drink cocktails and Long Island Iced Tea mixes, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to try a Long Island Iced Tea for the first time or you’re a seasoned fan of this cocktail, there are plenty of options available.
Make Your Own Long Island Iced Tea
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can always try making your own Long Island Iced Tea at home. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 ounces vodka
- 1 1/2 ounces gin
- 1 1/2 ounces rum
- 1 1/2 ounces tequila
- 1 1/2 ounces triple sec
- 1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 ounce simple syrup
- 6 ounces cola
Instructions:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and triple sec to the shaker.
- Squeeze in the lemon juice and add the simple syrup.
- Shake the mixture well and strain into a glass filled with ice.
- Top with cola and serve.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you make the perfect Long Island Iced Tea:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The key to making a great Long Island Iced Tea is to use high-quality ingredients. Choose a good vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and triple sec, and don’t skimp on the lemon juice and simple syrup.
- Adjust the amount of cola: Some people prefer their Long Island Iced Tea with a little more cola, while others like it with a little less. Experiment with different amounts of cola to find your perfect balance.
- Add a twist: If you want to add a twist to your Long Island Iced Tea, try adding a splash of citrus-flavored soda or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Final Thoughts
The Long Island Iced Tea is a classic cocktail that is easy to make and fun to drink. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of this cocktail or you’re just trying it for the first time, there are plenty of options available. From pre-mixed cocktails to ready-to-drink cocktails and Long Island Iced Tea mixes, you can enjoy this cocktail without having to make it yourself. So next time you’re in the mood for a Long Island Iced Tea, don’t be afraid to try something new and experiment with different ingredients and variations.
What is a Long Island Iced Tea?
A Long Island Iced Tea is a popular cocktail made with a combination of five different types of liquor: vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and triple sec. It is typically served in a tall glass filled with ice and topped with cola, which gives it a resemblance to iced tea. The drink is known for its strong and sweet flavor profile.
The origins of the Long Island Iced Tea are often attributed to Robert “Rosebud” Butt, a bartender who worked at the Oak Beach Inn in Long Island, New York, in the 1970s. According to legend, Butt created the drink as part of a contest to create a new cocktail using a specific type of triple sec. The drink quickly gained popularity and has since become a staple in bars and restaurants around the world.
Can you buy a Long Island Iced Tea pre-made?
Yes, it is possible to buy a pre-made Long Island Iced Tea. Many liquor stores and online retailers sell pre-mixed versions of the cocktail that can be purchased and consumed at home. These pre-made versions often come in bottles or cans and can be found in various sizes.
However, it’s worth noting that pre-made Long Island Iced Teas may not taste the same as a freshly made version. The quality of the ingredients and the ratio of the different liquors can vary depending on the manufacturer, which can affect the overall flavor and quality of the drink. Additionally, pre-made versions may contain added preservatives or artificial flavorings that can alter the taste.
What are the ingredients in a Long Island Iced Tea?
A traditional Long Island Iced Tea recipe typically includes the following ingredients: vodka, gin, rum, tequila, triple sec, cola, and lemon juice. The exact ratio of the different liquors can vary depending on the recipe, but a common ratio is 1 1/2 ounces of each liquor, topped with 1 ounce of cola and a squeeze of lemon juice.
In addition to the liquors, some recipes may also include other ingredients such as simple syrup or grenadine to add sweetness and flavor. However, these ingredients are not essential to the traditional recipe and can be omitted or substituted to taste.
How do you make a Long Island Iced Tea?
To make a Long Island Iced Tea, start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice. Add 1 1/2 ounces of each of the five liquors (vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and triple sec) to the shaker. Squeeze in a slice of lemon and add a splash of simple syrup if desired. Shake the mixture well to combine and chill the ingredients.
Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice and top with 1 ounce of cola. Stir gently to combine and garnish with a lemon wedge or wheel. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Can you make a Long Island Iced Tea at home?
Yes, it is easy to make a Long Island Iced Tea at home. All you need is a cocktail shaker, a tall glass, and the necessary ingredients. Simply follow the recipe outlined above and adjust the ratio of the liquors to taste.
One of the benefits of making a Long Island Iced Tea at home is that you can customize the recipe to your liking. You can adjust the amount of each liquor, add or subtract ingredients, and experiment with different flavor combinations. Additionally, making the drink at home can be more cost-effective than ordering it at a bar or restaurant.
Is a Long Island Iced Tea a strong drink?
Yes, a Long Island Iced Tea is a strong drink. The combination of five different types of liquor makes it a potent cocktail that can pack a punch. The drink’s strength is often masked by the cola and lemon juice, which can make it taste sweeter and more refreshing than it actually is.
However, it’s worth noting that the strength of a Long Island Iced Tea can vary depending on the recipe and the ratio of the liquors. Some versions of the drink may be stronger than others, so it’s always a good idea to drink responsibly and pace yourself.
Can you buy a Long Island Iced Tea in a bar or restaurant?
Yes, it is common to find Long Island Iced Teas on the menu in bars and restaurants. The drink is a popular choice among patrons and is often featured as a specialty cocktail or happy hour special.
When ordering a Long Island Iced Tea in a bar or restaurant, you can expect to pay a premium price for the drink. The cost can vary depending on the establishment and the location, but it’s typically priced around $10-$15 per serving.