Minted Southern Refresh Iced Tea Cocktail
Dive into a refreshing blend of classic Southern flavors with our Minted Southern Refresh Iced Tea Cocktail. This delightful beverage combines the spirited profiles of light rum, vodka, and gin with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon juice or lemonade. Adding unsweetened iced tea brings a timeless Southern charm, while the touch of simple syrup ensures the perfect balance of sweetness. Finished with a sprig of fresh mint and a lemon slice, this drink is not just a cocktail—it's a celebration in a Mason jar. Perfect for warm afternoons and social gatherings, you’ll find yourself smitten with this innovative spin on a Long Island Iced Tea and Arnold Palmer hybrid!
1
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
light rum
1 ounce (Measure and pour directly into the Mason jar.)
vodka
1 ounce (Measure and pour directly into the Mason jar.)
gin
1 ounce (Measure and pour directly into the Mason jar.)
fresh lemon juice or lemonade
4 ounces (Freshly squeeze lemons or use quality lemonade.)
unsweetened iced tea
3 ounces (Brew and cool your favorite unsweetened iced tea.)
simple syrup
1-2 ounces (Adjust to taste; can be made by dissolving equal parts sugar in hot water.)
mint sprig
1 sprig (Use for garnish.)
lemon slice
1 slice (Cut from a fresh lemon for garnish.)
Instructions
1
Fill a quart Mason jar with ice to the top.
2
Pour in the light rum, vodka, and gin.
3
Add the fresh lemon juice or lemonade, followed by the unsweetened iced tea.
4
Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
5
Taste the cocktail and add simple syrup to adjust sweetness as desired.
6
Garnish with a sprig of mint and a slice of lemon before serving.
7
Enjoy your refreshing cocktail responsibly!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Minted Southern Refresh Iced Tea Cocktail?
It is a refreshing cocktail that blends light rum, vodka, and gin with lemon juice and unsweetened iced tea, typically served in a Mason jar for a Southern feel.
What spirits are required for this recipe?
The recipe requires three types of alcohol: 1 ounce of light rum, 1 ounce of vodka, and 1 ounce of gin.
Can I use lemonade instead of fresh lemon juice?
Yes, you can use either 4 ounces of fresh lemon juice or your favorite quality lemonade.
What type of tea is best for this cocktail?
The recipe calls for 3 ounces of unsweetened iced tea that has been brewed and cooled.
How do I adjust the sweetness of the drink?
You can add between 1 and 2 ounces of simple syrup to taste, depending on how sweet you prefer your cocktail.
What is the recommended serving vessel?
For the most authentic experience, serve this cocktail in a quart-sized Mason jar filled with ice.
What are the recommended garnishes?
The cocktail is finished with a fresh sprig of mint and a slice of lemon.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is formulated to create 1 individual serving.
Is this drink similar to a Long Island Iced Tea?
Yes, it is described as an innovative hybrid between a Long Island Iced Tea and an Arnold Palmer.
Should I shake or stir this cocktail?
The instructions recommend stirring the mixture thoroughly in the jar rather than shaking.
How do I make simple syrup if I don't have any?
You can make it by dissolving equal parts sugar in hot water until the mixture is clear.
What flavor profile can I expect?
Expect a zesty, bright, and refreshing flavor with a balance of citrus, tea, and botanical spirits.
Can I use sweetened iced tea?
You can use sweetened tea, but you should adjust or omit the simple syrup to prevent the drink from becoming overly sweet.
What preparation is needed for the spirits?
Simply measure the spirits and pour them directly into the Mason jar filled with ice.
How much ice should be used?
The recipe suggests filling a quart Mason jar to the very top with ice before adding other ingredients.
Is this a good drink for parties?
Absolutely, its refreshing nature makes it perfect for warm afternoons and social gatherings.
Can I substitute the light rum?
While light rum is standard, you could use a spiced rum for a different flavor profile, though it will change the traditional character of the drink.
Is this drink categorized as a beverage or a dessert?
This recipe is categorized as a Beverage.
What type of gin is recommended?
A standard London Dry gin works well, but any quality gin will complement the lemon and mint flavors.
Can I make this alcohol-free?
To make a virgin version, omit the rum, vodka, and gin and increase the ratios of tea and lemonade.
Does the recipe include nutritional information?
Nutritional values like calories, fat, and protein are not specified in this recipe data.
Can I use lime instead of lemon?
Yes, lime can be used as a substitute, though it will give the drink a more tropical feel compared to the Southern lemon style.
How should I prepare the mint for garnish?
Use a fresh mint sprig; you can lightly clap it between your hands to release the aromatic oils before garnishing.
Is the tea added before or after the spirits?
The spirits are added first, followed by the lemon juice/lemonade and then the iced tea.
Can I use honey instead of simple syrup?
Yes, honey or agave nectar can be used, but ensure they are well-stirred to dissolve in the cold liquid.
What is the primary citrus component?
The primary citrus component is 4 ounces of fresh lemon juice or lemonade.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh is recommended, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation is very quick, taking only a few minutes to measure, pour, and stir the ingredients.
Why is it called 'Southern'?
The name comes from the combination of iced tea and the traditional use of a Mason jar for serving.
Should the tea be hot when adding it?
No, the tea should be brewed and cooled beforehand to avoid melting the ice too quickly.