Bourbon Mint Tea Recipe

Brew the tea

Brew a strong cup of black tea: steep one standard tea bag or 1 tablespoon loose-leaf tea in 1.5 cups (12 fl oz) of near-boiling water for 4–5 minutes. Remove the tea bag or strain leaves and let the tea sit 1–2 minutes so it is very hot but not scalding. If you prefer a milder flavor for iced service, brew for 3–4 minutes instead.

Muddle the mint

Place 6–8 fresh mint leaves in a heatproof mixing glass or cocktail shaker. Add the simple syrup (0.75 oz) and gently muddle 6–8 times—press just enough to release the mint oils without pulverizing the leaves. If using honey syrup, combine it here instead of simple syrup.

Combine tea and spirits

Pour 1.5 cups of the hot brewed tea into the muddled mint and syrup. Add 2 oz bourbon and 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice. Stir gently for 10–15 seconds to combine and slightly cool the mixture.

Adjust temperature

For a warm drink: pour the mixture into a warmed mug. Top with the remaining 0.5 cup hot water if you want a larger serving or slightly milder temperature. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a lemon wheel; optionally grate a very light pinch (about 1/8 tsp) of cinnamon or nutmeg over the top. Serve immediately.

Iced variation

For iced Bourbon Mint Tea: allow the combined tea, bourbon and syrup to cool for 5 minutes, then strain into a glass filled with 1 cup ice. Stir once to chill and dilute slightly. Garnish with a mint sprig and lemon wheel. If desired, top with an extra splash (0.25–0.5 oz) of cold water or cooled brewed tea to taste.

Notes & serving

Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity: add more simple syrup (0.25 oz increments) for sweetness or a touch more lemon juice for brightness. Use higher-quality bourbon for best results; the mint should be fresh and aromatic. Makes one generous serving.