The Origins of the Long Island Iced Tea

The Long Island Iced Tea is a renowned cocktail that combines vodka, rum, tequila, triple sec, and gin. However, its origins are a subject of contention between Tennessee and New York, with both states laying claim to the iconic drink. The debate over its birthplace stems from historical narratives that are as varied as the ingredients themselves.

Tennessee’s Claim to Fame

Kingsport, Tennessee, asserts that the Long Island Iced Tea originated during the prohibition era. According to local lore, Charlie “Old Man” Bishop crafted a version of the drink made with rum, vodka, tequila, gin, whiskey, and maple syrup. His son, Ransom, is said to have adjusted the recipe in the 1940s, introducing soda water or cola and citrus juice, closely resembling the cocktail we know today.

New York’s Oak Beach Inn Connection

Meanwhile, New York’s claim centers on the Oak Beach Inn, where Robert “Rosebud” Butt purportedly created his own iteration of this cocktail in the 1970s. Butt’s recipe featured the crucial ingredient of triple sec, marking a significant deviation from the whiskey base of Tennesee’s alternative. The timeline raises questions about the accessibility of vodka in Tennessee during prohibition, as experts suggest that vodka only became available in the U.S. after the 1930s.

Ultimately, while both states offer compelling narratives about the Long Island Iced Tea, it appears that New York may hold the edge with its inclusion of triple sec and a more modern recipe. Whether one leans towards Tennessee’s claims or New York’s narrative, the debate over this classic cocktail’s heritage adds an intriguing layer to an already popular drink.