THE TEA-TINI – A Vegas-inspired cocktail

Recently, I was able to explore what I call the “alcohol capital” of the world, aka Las Vegas. I drank everything from cranberry vodkas with orange peels, to Jameson on the rocks with a splash of Sprite, to expensive wines from Italy.

While on my journey, I stumbled upon the quietest hotel in all of Vegas: Mandarin Oriental. At first, I was hesitant to enter because it looked way too expensive for my budget, but I was pleasantly surprised by the reasonable prices — in Vegas terms, at least — and the spectacular view of the Strip from the bar. But it was the several cocktails on the menu featuring freshly brewed tea that blew me away the most.

I’ve had tea in my drinks before, like sweetened Lipton green tea or regular sweet tea, but I never imagined fresh, unsweetened tea could make a tasty cocktail.

So when I returned home, I immediately felt inspired to create something similar. Enjoy my tea rendition meant for sipping, sharing or drinking in excess, and if you get the chance, visit Mandarin Oriental on your next Vegas trip.

Ingredients

•2 bags Numi Organic Tea, Emperor’s Pu-erh
•Water
•Bourbon
•Orange juice
•Sprite Cranberry

Instructions

In a glass, combine water (to the brim) with the two tea bags and heat for 3 minutes. (The time might seem long, but it helps to bring out the earthy flavors of Pu-erh.)

Once heated, set the tea aside, so it can cool and the leaves can settle.

Next, in another glass, combine two parts bourbon with one part orange juice, and add a splash of Sprite Cranberry. Stir, do not shake, for subtler flavors.

Finally, fill the remainder of your glass with the settled Pu-erh. Ice is not necessary, as it will muddle the flavors. If you prefer ice, one to two cubes will do.

Enjoy!

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