Long Island Iced Tea is one of the most iconic cocktails in the world, known for its powerful mix of multiple spirits combined with a splash of cola that gives it the appearance of iced tea. Despite its innocuous look, this drink packs quite a punch due to its high alcohol content. In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the type of rum used in a Long Island Iced Tea, the history of the drink, and the best brands for crafting the perfect cocktail.
Introduction to Long Island Iced Tea
The Long Island Iced Tea cocktail is famous for its combination of four or five different spirits, often mixed together with a sour mix and cola. It’s not the drink for the faint-hearted, but it’s perfect for those who appreciate a strong yet refreshing cocktail. Its origins date back to the 1970s, where it is said to have been invented either by bartender Robert “Rosebud” Butt or by a man known as Old Man Bishop, depending on which legend you believe.
The Components of a Long Island Iced Tea
The base of this cocktail consists of vodka, tequila, gin, triple sec, lemon juice, and cola. But one of the essential elements of the Long Island Iced Tea is rum, typically white rum. This variety of rum gives the drink its smoothness and balances out the sharpness of the other liquors.
- White rum is most commonly used in Long Island Iced Tea.
- Brands such as Bacardi and Captain Morgan are widely used because they are affordable and widely available.
What Type of Rum is Typically Used in Long Island Iced Tea?
When it comes to selecting the right type of rum for your Long Island Iced Tea, the overwhelming preference is for white rum. This is because white rum has a light, sweet flavor that blends harmoniously with the other spirits. Some of the most commonly used white rum brands include Bacardi and Captain Morgan, both of which are affordable and high-quality options for any home bartender.
Why White Rum?
- White rum is chosen for its light and crisp flavor profile.
- It is smoother than dark rum, which has a more robust and heavier flavor that might overpower the other ingredients.
- The delicate sweetness of white rum helps to balance the tartness of the lemon juice and the fizz of the cola.
Differences Between Dark Rum and White Rum
Dark rum has a significantly different flavor profile compared to white rum, which is why it is less commonly used in Long Island Iced Tea. Dark rum is aged for a longer period of time, giving it a richer, more complex taste. While this makes it ideal for sipping or for use in tropical cocktails like the Dark ‘n’ Stormy, it can overpower the other spirits in a Long Island Iced Tea.
Key Differences:
- Aging: Dark rum is aged longer, giving it a deeper flavor, whereas white rum is usually aged for a short time or not at all.
- Flavor: Dark rum has notes of caramel, molasses, and spices, while white rum is light and crisp.
- Use in Cocktails: White rum is preferred for cocktails like Long Island Iced Tea due to its ability to mix without overpowering other flavors.
How Rum Complements the Other Spirits in Long Island Iced Tea
Rum, particularly white rum, plays a key role in the flavor profile of a Long Island Iced Tea. The sweetness and smoothness of the rum help to balance out the sharpness of the vodka, the earthy tones of the tequila, and the botanical notes of the gin. Combined with triple sec, the rum provides a sweetness that pairs well with the lemon juice and cola.
The Role of Rum in the Flavor Balance:
- Adds sweetness to balance out the gin and tequila.
- Smoothens the cocktail, making it less harsh despite the high alcohol content.
- Complements the sourness from the lemon juice and the carbonation from the cola.
The History and Evolution of Long Island Iced Tea
The Origins of Long Island Iced Tea
The Long Island Iced Tea has a somewhat murky origin story, with two competing claims about who invented the drink. The more widely accepted story credits Robert “Rosebud” Butt, a bartender who reportedly created the drink during a cocktail contest in the 1970s at a bar in Long Island, New York. However, another story attributes the invention to Old Man Bishop, who allegedly created a version of the drink during Prohibition in the 1920s.
Whichever version you choose to believe, there’s no denying that the Long Island Iced Tea became a staple of the cocktail world in the late 20th century and remains a popular choice to this day.
How the Recipe Has Changed Over Time
The recipe for Long Island Iced Tea has evolved over the years, with different variations popping up in bars around the world. Some bartenders prefer to use higher-end versions of the traditional spirits, while others experiment with adding extra ingredients like whiskey or flavored liqueurs.
Modern Variations:
- Using craft rum or premium vodka to elevate the drink.
- Adding flavored syrups or liqueurs to give a unique twist.
- Substituting the traditional cola with other carbonated beverages like ginger beer.
Popular Rum Brands for Long Island Iced Tea
Top White Rum Brands for Long Island Iced Tea
The right rum can make all the difference when crafting a Long Island Iced Tea. Here are some of the most popular white rum brands used by bartenders around the world:
- Bacardi: One of the most well-known and widely available white rums, Bacardi is a go-to choice for Long Island Iced Tea thanks to its light flavor and affordability.
- Captain Morgan White Rum: Another excellent option, Captain Morgan White Rum is smooth and slightly sweet, making it a great match for this cocktail.
- Flor de Caña 4-Year Extra Seco: This white rum is a bit more premium but offers a crisp, clean taste that blends seamlessly with the other ingredients.
Premium and Craft Rums for a Unique Twist
For those who want to elevate their Long Island Iced Tea, consider using a premium white rum or a craft rum from a smaller distillery. Some excellent options include:
- Montauk Distilling Co.’s Bellamy Spiced Rum: Though traditionally white rum is used, this craft spiced rum from a local New York distillery adds a rich depth of flavor to the cocktail.
- Rhum Clément Canne Bleue: This French agricole rum brings a sophisticated, floral note to the cocktail, setting it apart from the classic version.
- Plantation 3 Stars: A blend of white rum from three different countries, this craft rum adds complexity without overpowering the drink.
Spiced Rum Variations
Though not traditional, some bartenders like to experiment with using spiced rum in their Long Island Iced Tea. Spiced rums like Captain Morgan or Sailor Jerry add warm, sweet notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and clove, which can transform the flavor profile of the cocktail.
Pros of Using Spiced Rum:
- Adds complexity and warmth.
- Pairs well with the sweetness of cola.
- Creates a more autumnal version of the drink.
How to Make the Perfect Long Island Iced Tea
Step-by-Step Recipe for Long Island Iced Tea
Crafting the perfect Long Island Iced Tea is all about balancing the spirits so that none of them dominate the drink. Follow this simple recipe for a refreshing and potent cocktail:
Ingredients:
- ¾ ounce vodka
- ¾ ounce tequila
- ¾ ounce gin
- ¾ ounce white rum
- ¾ ounce triple sec
- 1 ounce simple syrup
- ¾ ounce lemon juice
- Splash of cola
Instructions:
- In a shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, tequila, gin, rum, triple sec, simple syrup, and lemon juice.
- Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Top off with a splash of cola.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge and serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Long Island Iced Tea can be tricky, especially for beginners. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Using too much or too little rum: The key to a great Long Island Iced Tea is balance. Too much rum can overpower the drink, while too little can make it taste too sharp.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Over-sweetening: Be careful not to add too much simple syrup or cola, which can make the drink overly sweet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of rum should I use for Long Island Iced Tea?
For a traditional Long Island Iced Tea, stick with a high-quality white rum like Bacardi or Captain Morgan. These rums offer a clean, light flavor that pairs well with the other spirits in the drink.
Can I substitute dark rum for white rum in Long Island Iced Tea?
While you can technically substitute dark rum for white rum, it will significantly alter the flavor of the cocktail. Dark rum is heavier and has a more pronounced molasses flavor, which can overpower the other spirits.
What are the best alternatives to rum for Long Island Iced Tea?
If you’re not a fan of rum, you can try making a version of the cocktail with whiskey or even mezcal. However, these alternatives will change the flavor of the drink.
Is Long Island Iced Tea strong because of the rum?
The strength of a Long Island Iced Tea comes from the combination of multiple spirits, not just the rum. The drink is known for its high alcohol content, but when balanced correctly, it shouldn’t taste overwhelmingly strong.
How many types of alcohol are in a Long Island Iced Tea?
A classic Long Island Iced Tea contains five different types of alcohol: vodka, tequila, gin, rum, and triple sec.
Conclusion: The Importance of Rum in Long Island Iced Tea
In conclusion, rum is an essential component of the Long Island Iced Tea, adding sweetness, smoothness, and balance to the otherwise sharp cocktail. Whether you prefer to stick with classic white rum or experiment with spiced rum, understanding the role of rum in this iconic drink can help you craft the perfect version. So next time you’re mixing up a batch of Long Island Iced Teas, remember that the rum you choose can make all the difference.