Summer is knocking, and for some tea lovers, that means a changing of the guard. As the temperatures rise, many of us are trading in the cozy teacups for tall glasses and ice trays. The timing couldn’t be better — June is National Iced Tea Month, and as always, we’re here to help you make the most of it.
Did you know that nearly 85% of the tea consumed in America is iced? It’s true. While hot tea may reign supreme in other parts of the world, here in the U.S., iced tea is more than just a summertime staple. From the rise of Southern sweet tea to the modern-day cold brew trend, iced tea has transformed into a remarkably versatile beverage, suited to every taste and occasion. So sip into this season with us as we share the ultimate guide to celebrating Iced Tea all month (and summer) long.
A Cool History
Hot tea might have centuries of tradition behind it, but iced tea has a story that’s just as cool — literally. For years, people had been experimenting with cold tea, but the idea really took off at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis.
Picture this: it’s a sweltering summer day, and an English tea vendor is struggling to convince fairgoers to sip something steaming (understandably). But then that vendor, Richard Blechynden, has a moment of genius. He decides to pour his hot tea over ice and serve it chilled. Just like that, a summer icon is born. Of course, Blechynden wasn’t the first to think of serving tea cold, but he certainly helped put it on the map.
Fast forward to today, and iced tea has gone from front porch classic to mix-and-match masterpiece. Fruity? Herbal? Sparkling? Unsweetened with a splash of lemon? However you take it, iced tea is here to help you cool down, perk up, and sip your way through summer.
Brew the Perfect Pitcher
Just like with hot tea, brewing iced tea is both an art and a science. Similarly, the process should start with quality ingredients and little know-how… that’s where we come in. There are two main methods: the first is hot brew and chill, which is when you steep your tea as usual, then cool it down in the fridge. The second method is to brew it cold by steeping tea bags or loose leaves in cold water for several hours. Both work beautifully for our line of Fresh Brew Iced Teas, it just depends on your timeline and taste.
If you’re using the hot brew method, start by paying close attention to your water temperature and steeping time – both are key to getting the best flavor. Water that’s too hot or leaves that steep too long can make your tea taste bitter or overly strong. Once brewed, let the tea cool slightly before refrigerating, or pour it over ice gradually to avoid "shocking" the tea, which can cause cloudiness.
Cold brew takes a bit more time and patience, but the payoff is well worth it. Instead of heat, you let the tea slowly infuse in cold water over several hours, usually overnight. This method brings out smoother, more delicate flavors and has the added bonus of being virtually foolproof.
To keep your iced tea looking crystal clear, filtered water is your friend. If you like your tea sweet, it’s best to add your sweetener while the tea is still warm so it dissolves evenly. And don’t forget the best part: garnishes! Fresh citrus slices, sprigs of mint, and even a handful of frozen berries can turn a simple pitcher into something truly special. Serve it in your favorite glassware with a few tea-infused ice cubes, and you’ve got a drink that’s every bit as beautiful as it is refreshing.
Summer Sips
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, heading out on a road trip, or simply enjoying a lazy afternoon by the pool, iced tea is the perfect companion to any moment. It’s versatile, refreshing, and endlessly customizable. For those looking to elevate their iced tea experience, there’s no better way than to turn it into a cocktail or mocktail. Get creative with some of the recipes below:
Watermelon Mint Iced Tea Julep
Ingredients:
Simple Syrup
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½ c sugar
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½ c water
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1 tsp Peppermint tea
Cocktail:
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1½ oz bourbon
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2 oz brewed Harney & Sons Watermelon Mint Fresh Brew Iced Tea
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1 oz watermelon juice
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½ oz mint simple syrup*
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Crushed ice
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Fresh mint sprig and watermelon wedge for garnish
Instructions:
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Prepare the peppermint tea by boiling water and then add the peppermint tea. Brew for 5 minutes. Remove the tea leaves, add sugar, and stir until dissolved.
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Assemble the Julep
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In a julep cup or highball glass, combine the bourbon, watermelon juice, and peppermint simple syrup.
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Fill the glass halfway with crushed ice.
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Pour in the chilled Watermelon Mint Fresh Brew Iced Tea.
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Stir gently to combine.
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Garnish and Serve
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Top with more crushed ice.
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Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a wedge of watermelon.
*Mint simple syrup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Arnold Palmer Twist
Ingredients:
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2 oz vodka
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2 oz Harney & Sons Black Currant Fresh Brew Iced Tea
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2 oz Harney & Sons Organic Lemonade Juice Drink
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2 oz ginger beer
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Ice cubes
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Fresh mint sprig and lemon wedge for garnish
Instructions:
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Assemble the Drink
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Fill a 16 oz glass with ice cubes.
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Combine tea, lemonade, and vodka, mixing until well combined.
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Top Off and Stir
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Top off with ginger beer for a fizzy, flavorful twist.
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Gently stir to blend the flavors.
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Garnish and Serve
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Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and lemon wedge to add a refreshing aroma and extra flair.
Peach Iced Tea Mojito
Ingredients:
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6 mint leaves
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3 oz Harney & Sons Peach Fresh Brew Iced Tea
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2 oz white rum
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½ oz fresh lime juice
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½ oz simple syrup*
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Fresh mint leaves
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Ice cubes
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Club soda (for topping)
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Lime wedge and mint sprig, for garnish
Instructions:
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Assemble the Mojito
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In a glass, muddle fresh mint leaves with the simple syrup and fresh lime juice.
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Add the peach tea and rum to the glass.
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Fill the glass with ice cubes.
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Top Off and Stir
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Top off with club soda for a refreshing, fizzy finish.
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Gently stir to combine all the flavors.
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Garnish and Serve
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Garnish with a lime wedge and a fresh mint sprig for an extra touch of aroma and flair.
*Simple syrup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
If you’re taking the sober curious route, iced tea is the perfect way to stay refreshed without the alcohol. For a deeper dive into this movement and how to make the most of mocktails, check out our blog on embracing the sober curious lifestyle. You’ll find tons of creative ways to enjoy your iced tea while keeping the summer vibes going strong. And if you’re looking for a fun, interactive way to host, why not set up your own DIY iced tea bar? This is a great way to let everyone customize their drinks and add their personal touch. Don’t worry, we’ve got a blog for that as well to get you started.
Tea On the Go
For those on the go, our bottled iced tea is an absolute must. Whether you’re heading out for a road trip, running errands, or hauling the kiddos around, our bottled teas are the perfect refreshment when you're short on time. They’re available in a variety of flavors, including Blood Orange, Supreme Green, White Peach Matcha, Sweet Tea, and more.
No matter how you sip it, it’s clear that iced tea is the perfect summer companion. National Iced Tea Month is just our excuse (not that we need one) to celebrate all the ways tea brings us together and helps us slow down, cool off, and savor the season.
