Long Island Iced Tea

Long Island Iced Tea is a cocktail made with vodka, gin, rum, tequila, orange liqueur, citrus juice, and cola.

Long Island Iced Tea is a strong cocktail that combines vodka, gin, rum, tequila, orange liqueur, citrus juice, and cola. Despite its name, it contains no tea — the colour comes from the cola.

What it is

This mixed drink is typically served over ice in a tall glass, such as a Collins or highball. The standard recipe uses equal parts of four base spirits and orange liqueur, topped with cola and lemon juice. It is known for its amber-brown, tea-like appearance and high alcohol content.

Why it matters

The Long Island Iced Tea is a familiar strong cocktail in Canadian bars and restaurants. Its origin is disputed — some trace it to Prohibition-era attempts to disguise alcohol, while others point to a 1970s creation on Long Island, New York. The name comes from its resemblance to iced tea, not from any actual tea ingredient.

Key details

Recipes vary by choice of orange liqueur (like triple sec or Cointreau) and citrus juice (lemon or lime). Some versions add simple syrup. The drink is usually garnished with a lemon slice or wedge. Despite its popularity, it is generally considered a strong cocktail due to the blend of multiple spirits.