Bergamot Iced Tea Cocktail

Share this post

It seems like I always have a summer drink. Last summer, I was into vodka collins. This summer, it is citrus vodka and iced tea and… SkinnyGirl Pina Colada with a splash of pineapple. Chenin, if you are reading this, I can sense your disappointment in me, but I just cannot help myself.

Specifically, bergamot iced tea and citrus vodka. A few weeks ago, my husband and I went on a rare date and after a lovely meal, we decided to check out Revel. Not only is the casino gorgeous (and smoke free!), I fell in love with this iced tea drink. You could get into some serious trouble with these, they go down mighty easy. Bergamot is a citrus fruit, and somewhere between a lemon and a grapefruit. It is perfect for iced tea, and even more perfect with a shot of citrus vodka in it. Lots of ice and a squeeze of lemon, and it is just about the most refreshing cocktail I have ever had.

1 1/3 cups sugar
1 1/3 cups sugar
8 Double Bergamot Earl Grey tea bags
2 lemons
citrus vodka

Start by making a simple syrup. Combine sugar and water and bring to a boil.

When the mixture is clear, it is ready. Cool to room temperature.

Bring 3 quarts of water to a boil.

Add tea bags.

Steep for about 3 minutes. It will be pretty dark. Cool completely.

I like to make really big ice cubes instead of adding lots of ice cubes. It doesn’t water the tea down as much. Add some water to a small bowl with a few lemon slices and freeze until solid. Be smarter than me, make sure that it is not too big for the pitcher that you are going to use. Don’t ask me why I know to remind you of this. You could also freeze the tea so that it does not dilute it at all.

When both the tea and simple syrup are cool, pour in enough simple syrup until it as sweet as you like it. I usually start with half and go from there. As much as I love sweets, I do not like overly sweet tea. It is completely up to your taste.

To unmold the ice, dip the bowl into water for a few seconds, it should pop right out.

Add the ice to the pitcher.

Pour some tea into a glass. I like lots of ice in my drink. Add a shot (again, depends on your taste) of citrus vodka. And a squeeze of lemon. Cheers!