Before we stir things up, here’s what this article covers: We’re diving into the origin and taste of the Long Ireland Iced Tea, its alcohol blend, how it compares to the Long Island original, and how to shake up cola-free versions. Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ or stocking up your home bar, this cocktail is a conversation starter that packs a punch.
Table of Contents
PART 1: The Story Behind the Long Ireland Iced Tea
A Family Party & a Drink That Surprised Us All
I’m Alex Morgan, the kid whose lunchbox always smelled like garlic-lime chicken instead of PB&J. Growing up Peruvian-American in California meant holidays were a collision of cultures—and so were the drinks. But I’ll never forget the first time someone handed me what they called a “Long Ireland Iced Tea.”
Long Ireland Iced Tea
Equipment
- Cocktail Shaker
- Highball Glass
Ingredients
white rum
- 1/2 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz gin
- 1/2 oz white rum
- 1/2 oz triple sec
- 1/2 oz Irish whiskey
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 2 oz lemon-lime soda or citrus soda
- Ice as needed
- Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice and add vodka, gin, rum, triple sec, and Irish whiskey.
- Add fresh lemon juice and shake until well chilled.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with lemon-lime soda and gently stir.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.
Notes
We were at a family St. Patrick’s Day cookout. I expected a Guinness or maybe a green beer. Instead, my cousin poured me this deep amber drink with a lime wedge and said, “Don’t worry, it’s not tea—but it’ll hit like one.” One sip, and I knew I’d found something special. Sweet but potent. Familiar yet entirely different from the Long Island I knew.
The “Long Ireland Iced Tea” keeps the multi-liquor base but swaps out cola for something lighter, often citrus soda or lemonade. It’s smoother, a touch less syrupy, and unexpectedly refreshing. And that name? It’s more than just a pun—it’s a regional twist that’s made its way onto menus from Boston to Boise.
I’ve made this cocktail my own now, adding fresh citrus and dialing down the sugar. And every time I take a sip, I hear Grandma Rosa’s voice in my head: “Does it sing?” Oh, it sings—bright, bold, and a little rebellious.
You’ll find this drink pairs perfectly with recipes like this Malibu Pineapple Margarita or my tropical Rum Punch. And if you’re prepping for a party, don’t miss the Big Batch Long Island Iced Tea Guide for a helpful base comparison.
PART 2: What Makes a Long Ireland Iced Tea Unique?
What Alcohol Is in a Long Ireland Iced Tea?
At first glance, the Long Ireland Iced Tea looks a lot like its better-known cousin, the Long Island. But peek under the ice, and you’ll notice a few key differences—starting with the booze.
A traditional Long Ireland Iced Tea usually contains:
- Vodka
- Gin
- White rum
- Triple sec or orange liqueur
- Irish whiskey
That last one? It’s what sets this drink apart. The smooth caramel warmth of Irish whiskey swaps in for tequila, giving the cocktail a mellow depth. While the Long Island can hit hard with agave bite, the Long Ireland finishes clean—rounded and subtle.
The base spirits are often shaken with fresh lemon or lime juice and a splash of simple syrup. For the mixer, skip the cola and pour in citrus soda or even ginger beer. You get a fizzy lift that brightens the drink instead of weighing it down.
Long Ireland vs. Long Island Iced Tea: What’s the Difference?
It’s not just the name—these two cocktails are close cousins with a few regional quirks.
| Feature | Long Island Iced Tea | Long Ireland Iced Tea |
|---|---|---|
| Base Spirits | Vodka, gin, rum, tequila, triple sec | Vodka, gin, rum, Irish whiskey, triple sec |
| Mixer | Cola | Citrus soda or lemon-lime soda |
| Flavor Profile | Rich, dark, strong | Crisp, light, slightly floral |
| Presentation | Lemon wedge, tall glass | Lime wedge, highball glass |
While the Glow-in-the-Dark Cocktails offer a visual spectacle, the Long Ireland relies on subtle sophistication. It’s a great drink to serve alongside a Chocolate Martini when you want contrast at the bar—both smooth, both bold, but with totally different attitudes.
PART 3: Strength, Sips & Cola-Free Secrets
How Strong Is a Long Ireland Iced Tea?
Let’s be real—Long Ireland Iced Tea is not for the faint of heart. With four to five types of liquor in one glass, it’s got more kick than your average cocktail.
The alcohol-by-volume (ABV) can hover between 22% to 28%, depending on how generously you pour. Compared to the average glass of wine (around 12% ABV), this one’s nearly double. But what makes it dangerous is how drinkable it is. That citrusy soda softens the hit, and the whiskey lends a smooth warmth that sneaks up on you.
Always sip slowly. Serve over plenty of ice in a highball glass. And if you’re mixing for friends, label the pitcher—because it’s easy to underestimate just how strong one glass can be.
Pro tip: if you’re looking for other cocktails with a sneaky kick, the Green Tea Shot offers a playful take, while the Drunken Monkey Rum Cocktail is another unexpected heavyweight in disguise.
Can You Make a Long Ireland Iced Tea Without Cola? Absolutely.
One of the reasons this version has gained popularity is because it skips the cola entirely. The fizz and sweetness still come through—just with better balance.
Top substitutes include:
| Cola Alternative | Flavor Benefit |
|---|---|
| Lemon-lime soda | Clean and citrusy |
| Ginger beer | Spicy kick with depth |
| Sparkling lemonade | Zingy with just a touch of sweetness |
| Club soda + agave syrup | Light, low-calorie twist |
No cola means no syrupy aftertaste, so you can let the Irish whiskey shine. And if you’re experimenting, try adding fresh muddled mint or cucumber for a seasonal spin.
Conclusion
The Long Ireland Iced Tea isn’t just a cocktail—it’s a remix that speaks to personal taste and clever substitutions. If you love strong drinks with a lighter finish, this is your glass. Try it with different mixers, tweak the ratios, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. Whether it’s your first pour or your fiftieth, let the drink sing back.
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What Is the Difference Between a Long Ireland Iced Tea and a Long Island Iced Tea?
It comes down to two major differences: the whiskey and the mixer. A Long Island includes tequila and cola, giving it a darker, more intense flavor. The Long Ireland replaces tequila with Irish whiskey, smoothing out the flavor. It also uses citrus soda instead of cola, making it lighter and more refreshing.
What Alcohol Is in a Long Ireland Iced Tea?
The core spirits include vodka, gin, rum, triple sec, and Irish whiskey. Some versions skip triple sec or swap it with Cointreau, depending on sweetness preference. The Irish whiskey is the game-changer—it adds a subtle maltiness that sets this apart from other iced teas.
How Strong Is a Long Ireland Iced Tea?
Very strong. With multiple liquors and little mixer, a single serving often lands around 22–28% ABV. This cocktail is potent and meant to be sipped slowly. Always pour over ice and use a tall glass.
Can You Make a Long Ireland Iced Tea Without Cola?
Yes, and many recipes do. Swap cola for lemon-lime soda, ginger beer, or sparkling lemonade. The result is still bubbly but cleaner, with a citrus-forward taste that pairs well with the Irish whiskey’s warmth.