A good Manhattan Iced Tea is smooth, slightly sweet, and just the right amount of strong—perfect for warm evenings or a laid-back gathering with friends. It’s a fun twist on classic iced tea, borrowing bold flavors from the Manhattan cocktail while keeping things refreshingly light. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it’s always a hit. Let me show you how to make it just right.
Manhattan Iced Tea
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) whiskey – Rye whiskey gives it a bold kick, but bourbon works too.
- 1 oz (30ml) sweet vermouth – Adds a smooth, slightly herbal sweetness.
- 1 oz (30ml) fresh lemon juice – Brightens up the drink.
- 1/2 oz (15ml) simple syrup – Just enough to balance the tartness.
- A splash of cola – For a touch of fizz and caramel notes.
- Ice cubes – Enough to fill your shaker and glass.
For serving:
- A cherry or lemon twist – Optional, but a great finishing touch.
- A chilled highball glass – Helps keep everything nice and cold.
How to Make It
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the whiskey, sweet vermouth, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well—about 10–15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with a splash of cola and give it a gentle stir.
- Garnish with a cherry or lemon twist, if you like.
This drink is best enjoyed fresh, but if you’re making it for a crowd, you can mix everything except the cola in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add ice and cola when serving.
Tips for the Best Manhattan Iced Tea
- Use fresh lemon juice – Bottled juice won’t give you the same bright, fresh taste.
- Chill your glass – A few minutes in the freezer keeps your drink colder for longer.
- Adjust the sweetness – If you like it less sweet, use half the simple syrup or swap in a sugar-free alternative.
- Experiment with whiskey – Rye gives it spice, bourbon makes it smoother—try both and see what you prefer!
I’ve found that using a little less cola keeps the whiskey’s warmth front and center, while just a bit more makes it extra refreshing. Play around with the balance to find what works for you.
What to Serve with a Manhattan Iced Tea
This cocktail pairs well with bold, flavorful foods. Here are a few great options:
- Spicy appetizers – Buffalo wings, jalapeño poppers, or spicy shrimp skewers balance beautifully with the drink’s sweetness.
- Barbecue – Smoky grilled meats bring out the whiskey’s depth. Think ribs, brisket, or pulled pork.
- Dark chocolate desserts – A rich chocolate cake or brownies complement the drink’s caramel notes perfectly.
Variations to Try
Want to mix things up? Here are a few fun twists:
- Southern Belle – Swap whiskey for peach schnapps for a fruitier version.
- Midnight Manhattan – Add a splash of blackberry liqueur for a deep, jammy flavor.
- Tea Time in Manhattan – Replace cola with brewed black tea for a more traditional iced tea feel.
And if you want a non-alcoholic version, just skip the whiskey and vermouth. Mix lemon juice, simple syrup, and cola over ice for a refreshing mocktail that’s just as tasty.
Common Questions
Can I make this in a big batch for a party?
Yes! Mix everything except the cola in a pitcher and chill. Pour over ice and add cola just before serving.
What’s the best whiskey to use?
Rye whiskey gives it a spicier edge, while bourbon makes it smoother. Try both and see what you like best.
How can I make it less sweet?
Use less simple syrup or swap it for a sugar-free version. You can also use diet cola.
Does it actually have tea in it?
Nope! The name is just a playful nod to classic iced tea and the Manhattan cocktail.
This has been my go-to summer drink for years, and it never fails to impress. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a fun variation, I hope you love it as much as I do. Cheers! 🍹
