The New Orleans Iced Tea is a lively, spirit-forward twist on the familiar Long Island Iced Tea, incorporating Southern-inspired flavors and a hint of tropical sweetness. With a combination of light and dark rums, tequila, and fresh citrus, this cocktail delivers big flavor while staying refreshingly crisp. Its vibrant presentation and bold taste make it a standout choice for summer parties, backyard gatherings, or festive celebrations.
Perfect for those who love a strong, balanced drink with layers of complexity, the New Orleans Iced Tea embodies Southern hospitality in a glass.
Equipment
To prepare a New Orleans Iced Tea, you’ll need:
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Cocktail shaker: For combining ingredients evenly
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Jigger or measuring cup: For precise measurement
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Stirring spoon: To mix gently if not shaking
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Highball or tall glass: Ideal for serving over ice
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Ice cubes: For chill and refreshment
Ingredients
Each component contributes to the drink’s bold and refreshing character:
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0.5 oz light rum
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0.5 oz dark rum
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0.5 oz tequila
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0.5 oz gin
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0.5 oz triple sec or orange liqueur
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1 oz fresh lemon juice
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0.5–1 oz simple syrup
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Splash of cola: For color and subtle sweetness
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Ice cubes: To chill
Optional garnish: lemon wedge or fresh mint
Instructions
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Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
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Add light rum, dark rum, tequila, gin, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
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Shake well until chilled.
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Strain into a tall glass filled with ice.
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Add a splash of cola on top.
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Garnish with a lemon wedge or mint sprig.
Tasting Notes
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Aroma: Citrus-forward with hints of rum and herbal notes
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Color: Golden-brown with cola tint
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Taste: Bold, slightly sweet, balanced citrus and rum flavors
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Mouthfeel: Smooth, medium-bodied, and refreshingly crisp
Similar Cocktails
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Long Island Iced Tea: The classic template for multi-spirit iced tea cocktails
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Rum Iced Tea: Rum-forward variation
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Texas Tea: Strong variation similar to Long Island but with bourbon or tequila
History
The New Orleans Iced Tea is a regional variation of the Long Island Iced Tea, adapted to Southern tastes. By incorporating rum and tropical elements, bartenders in New Orleans created a drink that is bold, flavorful, and perfect for warm-weather celebrations while paying homage to the city’s rich cocktail culture.
Quick Pro Tips
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Use fresh citrus juice: Enhances brightness and balance
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Chill glassware: Keeps the cocktail refreshing longer
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Layer cola carefully: Adds visual appeal without diluting flavors
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Adjust sweetness: Modify simple syrup or cola to taste
When to Serve
The New Orleans Iced Tea is perfect for:
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Summer parties and barbecues
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Festivals or outdoor gatherings
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Celebratory occasions and brunches
