For some, the mere whisper of the LIIT can send shudders down the spine. For many others, it’s the humble beginnings of an evening of karaoke, Sambuca shots, blister-filled shoes, dance battles, more karaoke and a Michelin-worthy kebab.
Despite the opinions of fancy bartenders everywhere, the LIIT has stood the test of time for one very simple reason: it works. Now, the history here is a little murky, and for the purposes of this story, it doesn’t really matter. It’s the perfect balancing act.
The Long Island Iced Tea is one of the first ever split-based cocktails. Most bartenders nowadays will show off by taking a classic, then putting their own twist on it. This usually means they have split the base spirits (think the 50/50 Sazerac, Vesper Martini and Fog Cutter). Here, the split is gin, vodka, white rum, tequila, triple sec. This technique was invented at the beginning of last century, so it’s definitely not groundbreaking. When you use this action in any other cocktail it is ‘classy and elegant’.
So why isn’t it cute when we do this with the Long Island Iced Tea?
Well, it’s because of its terrible reputation as a go-to drink for skint uni students, aging party goers – anyone looking for bang for their buck, really. People have grown to believe that because of the line-up of spirits, it has to be the booziest – more equals better, right? Suddenly, our beautifully balanced, well-rounded, refreshing yet silky cocktail has as much class as an emu on skates smoking a Winnie Blue.
But made with care and respect, it’s a tasty drink. That’s really the crux of it. It’s yum. So. Go and order one. Order it at the top of your lungs, with the confidence of a middle-aged white man. Take the eyeroll and nostril flare as an applause to your intelligent taste. And when your bartender tries to talk you out of it, tell them that Negronis are shit, sit back, and watch them reel.
Lovebite 2 Forresters Lane, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
