Dark Island Iced Tea - Cocktail Recipe

There’s something about a drink that looks as dark as the abyss but tastes as smooth as silk. The Dark Island Iced Tea is my answer to those late nights when only the strongest, most atmospheric cocktail will do. A moody take on the classic Long Island Iced Tea, this version swaps out lighter spirits for deeper, richer flavours - black rum, smoky mezcal, and a splash of blackcurrant liqueur to bring in a touch of eerie sweetness.

This drink isn’t for the faint of heart - it’s bold, complex, and lingers long after the last sip. Serve it in a tall glass over plenty of ice, with a twist of burnt orange peel for that last touch of darkness.

Ingredients

• 15ml black rum
• 15ml mezcal
• 15ml vodka
• 15ml blackcurrant liqueur (Crème de Cassis)
• 10ml fresh lemon juice
• Cola, to top
• Burnt orange peel, for garnish

Method

1. Fill a tall glass with ice.
2. Pour the rum, mezcal, vodka, blackcurrant liqueur, and lemon juice over the ice.
3. Top with cola and stir gently.
4. Use a match or lighter to char the orange peel above the glass, then drop it in as garnish.
5. Drink in the shadows and let the night unfold...