Cocktail Fun

Long Island Iced Tea

Long Island Iced Tea cocktail image
Long Island Iced Tea

Description

The Long Island Iced Tea is one of the most famous and deceptively powerful cocktails ever created, known for combining vodka, gin, tequila, rum, and triple sec into one surprisingly smooth drink. Balanced with fresh lemon juice and topped with cola, it takes on the look of classic iced tea, despite containing no tea at all. That contrast is part of its legend: it tastes bright, slightly sweet, and dangerously easy to drink, while hiding a far stronger kick than many people expect. Over the years, it has earned a reputation as the ultimate party cocktail, bold, lively, and impossible to ignore.

What makes the Long Island Iced Tea so captivating is the way it turns an unlikely mix of spirits into something balanced and memorable. Rather than tasting harsh, a well-made version is crisp, citrusy, and surprisingly refreshing, with the cola bringing everything together into its signature smooth finish. It is a drink with real attitude, perfect for lively nights, celebrations, and anyone who enjoys cocktails that make an impression.

Ingredients

  • 15 ml Vodka
  • 15 ml Gin
  • 15 ml White Rum
  • 15 ml Tequila
  • 15 ml Triple Sec
  • 25 ml Lemon Juice
  • 15 ml Sugar Syrup
  • Cola to top
  • 1 lemon (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Add vodka, gin, white rum, tequila, triple sec, lemon juice, and sugar syrup to a shaker with ice.
  2. Shake briefly until chilled.
  3. Strain into a tall glass over ice and top with cola.
  4. Garnish with a lemon wedge.

Recommended glassware

Highball Glass
Highball Glass (recommended)

A tall everyday glass for mixed drinks with ice and a longer pour.

240–350 ml Tall cylindrical shape with room for ice and mixer.

Best for: Moscow Mule, Dark and Stormy, Scotch Highball, Rum and Coke, Mojito variations.

Garnish: Good for wedges, spears, herbs, and long-drink garnishes.

Collins Glass
Collins Glass

A tall straight-sided glass perfect for long refreshing cocktails.

Also suitable for a taller serve.

300–410 ml Tall, straight-sided, narrower than a highball.

Best for: Mojito, Tom Collins, Paloma, Gin Fizz, long refreshing cocktails.

Garnish: Excellent for mint sprigs, lime wedges, citrus wheels, and straws.

Quick facts

5 mins Easy Approx. 19% ABV 2.5 units 240 kcal Ice
Love this recipe? Share it with a friend or save it for later.