Tea can add another flavor layer to a cocktail, from black tea with whiskey to a fruity infusion with brandy. These seven combinations are pairing ideas, not measured cocktail recipes, and are intended for adults of legal drinking age.
Prepare the tea first
Follow the chosen tea's brewing directions, then remove tea bags or strain loose leaves. Check its ingredients and caffeine information rather than assuming every herbal blend is caffeine-free.
Use a measured cocktail recipe when making a finished drink. For chilled drinks, cool the tea promptly in a suitable container and refrigerate before mixing.
For warm drinks, finish heating the non-alcoholic ingredients before adding spirits. Do not heat spirits directly or shake hot liquids in a closed container. Stir carbonated mixers gently rather than shaking them.
1. Whiskey and black tea
Explore black tea with whiskey, with honey or citrus included in a measured recipe if desired. Different teas and whiskies will change the flavor. Choose the pairing for taste, not as a sleep aid or remedy.
2. Rum and chai
Try a spiced chai with rum. Review the chai and spirit labels rather than assuming every product contains the same spices. For an iced version, chill the brewed tea before mixing.
3. Gin and herbal or green tea
Compare gin's particular botanical flavors with green tea or a mint-containing infusion. Washed culinary mint or cucumber can be optional garnishes if appropriate to the recipe.
4. Brandy and fruity tea
Explore brandy with a fruit or hibiscus-containing blend. For punch, use a measured recipe and keep track of the total alcohol and number of servings rather than adding an unspecified amount.
5. Vodka and iced tea
Try vodka with a tea you enjoy served cold. Sweetened and unsweetened teas will produce different results. Use measured quantities rather than treating a “shot” as a precise recipe amount.
6. Liqueurs and tea
A tea-flavored or coffee-flavored liqueur can change a drink's sweetness and aroma. Read its ingredient information, including any milk or cream ingredients, and use a recipe designed for that product.
A coffee liqueur should not automatically be described as creamy; texture depends on the actual ingredients and preparation.
7. Sake and green tea
Compare a sake you enjoy with green tea using a measured drink recipe. Flavor varies by both products. Follow the recipe and product guidance for serving temperature.
Choose a tea to explore
Browse black teas for whiskey, chai teas for rum, green teas for gin or sake, herbal blends for minty or fruity pairings, or iced teas for vodka for blends to use in a suitable cocktail recipe. Review each product's current details and choose by flavor.
These suggestions do not establish a perfect pairing for every guest or occasion. Keep alcoholic drinks clearly identified, drink responsibly, and do not drive after drinking.
