Looking for a cocktail that’s strong, sweet, and sophisticated? The Top Shelf Long Island Iced Tea is a premium take on the classic, with smooth spirits, fresh citrus, and a rich amber hue that’s perfect for any celebration.
Equipment
To prepare this cocktail, a few essential bar tools are needed:
-
Cocktail Shaker: For thoroughly chilling and mixing ingredients
-
Jigger or Measuring Cup: For accurate pours of each spirit
-
Bar Spoon: For gentle stirring
-
Ice Cubes: For chilling and serving
-
Highball Glass: Tall glass is traditional for presentation
Ingredients
Premium ingredients make the Top Shelf Long Island Iced Tea stand out:
-
0.5 oz Premium Vodka
-
0.5 oz Premium Gin
-
0.5 oz Silver Tequila
-
0.5 oz White Rum
-
0.5 oz Triple Sec (or Cointreau)
-
0.75 oz Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens the drink
-
0.75 oz Simple Syrup: Adds balance
-
Splash of Cola: Gives color and subtle sweetness
-
Ice Cubes: For serving
-
Garnish: Lemon wedge or wheel
Instructions
Follow these steps for a perfectly balanced Top Shelf Long Island Iced Tea:
-
Fill Shaker with Ice: Add fresh ice cubes to a cocktail shaker.
-
Add Spirits and Mixers: Pour in vodka, gin, tequila, rum, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
-
Shake Well: Shake until well chilled and combined.
-
Serve: Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
-
Top with Cola: Add a splash to achieve the signature iced tea color.
-
Garnish: Finish with a lemon wedge for presentation.
Tasting Notes
The Top Shelf Long Island Iced Tea offers a complex yet balanced flavor:
-
Aroma: Fresh citrus with hints of alcohol warmth
-
Color: Amber-brown, resembling iced tea
-
Taste: Sweet and tangy with a smooth, boozy finish
-
Mouthfeel: Cold, crisp, and refreshing despite its strength
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy the Top Shelf Long Island, try:
-
Classic Long Island Iced Tea: Standard spirits and cola
-
Electric Long Island (AMF): Uses blue curaçao and lemon-lime soda
-
Tokyo Iced Tea: A variation using Midori for a green hue
-
Adios Motherf*er (AMF):** Stronger blue cocktail with citrus
History
The Long Island Iced Tea was created in the 1970s by bartender Robert “Rosebud” Butt. He mixed multiple spirits with sweet and sour elements to mimic the flavor and color of iced tea. Over time, bartenders began creating “top shelf” versions using higher-quality spirits for smoother flavor and more sophistication. Today, it remains a classic party cocktail, known for both its potency and drinkability.
Quick Pro Tips
-
Use Fresh Juice: Lemon juice adds brightness
-
Top Shelf Spirits: Premium alcohol makes a smoother, cleaner drink
-
Chill Everything: Cold ingredients improve balance
-
Serve in a Tall Glass: Enhances presentation and volume
When to Serve
The Top Shelf Long Island Iced Tea is ideal for lively occasions:
-
Parties and Celebrations: Strong, crowd-pleasing, and flavorful
-
Happy Hour: A sophisticated twist on a classic favorite
-
Summer Gatherings: Refreshing yet powerful
-
Group Events: Perfect for batching and sharing
