A Whiskey and Tea Cocktail

What is the best tea to use when you want to add a bit of whiskey or bourbon to your cup? I've heard of doing that and would like to try it. I generally only drink black teas. I know there are various types of whiskey also, so I'd probably need some guidance there also.

- Cynthia from Urbana, IL

It's been a while since we did a Tea Time involving alcohol, but with the sun out longer and the weather getting warmer, it is time to indulge in some libations! While it does not seem like a good fit, tea and whiskey actually go well together. The secret to pairing whiskey and tea is to play off the smokey notes of the whiskey. Due to the fact it is smoked over pine embers, Lapsang Souchong is the perfect tea for this. It is such a good match that a lot of whiskey and Scotch drinkers immediately fall in love with Lapsang due to its wonderful smokey aroma and flavor. Here is a beverage that combines Bourbon and Lapsang and a hint of orange to give you an amazing cocktail that is sophisticated and complex.

Bourbon is the perfect pairing with Lapsang

Bourbon has a slightly smokey note that a lot of whiskeys do not have. You really don't need to go overboard here with the brand of Bourbon since a lot of the liquor's subtle notes will be replaced with the tea and orange. Another option for whiskey is Scotch, but I think it may be a tad too pricey to make a mixed drink with.

Here is what you need

1 oz. Bourbon
1 tsp Lapsang Souchong
1 tbsp sugar
Orange peel
Ice cubes

Here is how to make the tea

Steep 1 tsp of tea in 4 oz. of water for 6 minutes
After 6 minutes, pour the sugar into the teapot
Pour the strained tea over a small handful of ice

Here is how to make the cocktail

Fill a highball glass with ice and Bourbon
Add the tea and orange peel
Mix and enjoy!

Is it sweet?

Nope. Anytime you make an alcoholic beverage with tea, you need to add a bit of sugar. If not, the alcohol dominates the drink and it ends up tasting only like the whiskey. If you want a sweeter drink, I would add 2 tbsps of sugar since this is going to be a pretty stiff beverage. Enjoy!

photo: www.flickr.com/photos/intherough/5463369204