Sweet Tea Moonshine
Sweet tea is a religion in certain parts of this country, and moonshine has been a sacrament since before there were maps for these mountains. Put them together and you get something that bridges geography and tradition in a single glass. The idea probably came from a front porch somewhere in Appalachia, but it found a second home in Montana, where the summers are shorter and the thirst is just as real.
You make this drink when the afternoon has stretched into that golden hour before dinner, when the sprinklers are running and the dog is asleep under the table. It is the kind of drink that rewards patience. The tea needs to be properly brewed and properly cold, not that powdered stuff from a can. Real tea, real sugar, dissolved while the water is still hot. The moonshine slides into it so naturally you almost forget it is there, until the warmth settles in your chest and the conversation gets a little easier. That is the whole point. Nothing fancy, nothing complicated, just a long drink on a warm evening with nowhere else to be.
Sweet Tea Moonshine
Ingredients
- 2 oz Montucky Moonshine
- 6 oz sweet tea
- Lemon wedge for garnish
- Ice
Instructions
- Fill a tall glass with ice.
- Pour 2 oz Montucky Moonshine over the ice.
- Add 6 oz cold sweet tea.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Squeeze a lemon wedge over the top and drop it in.
Serve It In
A tall Mason jar is the only correct vessel. The wide mouth lets you get your nose into the tea aroma, and the thick glass keeps it cold. If you want to be traditional, wrap it in a paper napkin to catch the condensation.
Complete the Moment
Nothing says porch life like a Montucky Moonshine Hat — keep the sun out of your eyes while you sip through the afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought sweet tea?
Yes, but homemade is noticeably better. If buying, choose a brand that uses real sugar rather than high-fructose corn syrup. The cleaner sweetness pairs better with the moonshine.
How do I make sweet tea from scratch?
Steep 4 tea bags in 2 cups of boiling water for 5 minutes. Remove the bags, stir in 1/2 cup of sugar until dissolved, then add 2 cups of cold water. Refrigerate until cold. That gives you enough for several drinks.
Can I make this with unsweetened tea?
Absolutely. Add a splash of simple syrup or honey to taste. Some people prefer it less sweet, and the moonshine provides enough character on its own to carry a drier version of this drink.