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Ingredients
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Tea Base
Grapefruit & Sweetener
Finishing
Method
Tea Base
Brew the tea
Bring 3 cups of water to a near boil (about 200°F / 93°C). Remove from heat and steep 2 teaspoons of loose black tea (or 2 standard tea bags) in the hot water for 3–4 minutes for a bright but not overly bitter brew. Taste at 3 minutes; if you prefer stronger tea, steep an additional minute.
Cool the tea
Remove the tea leaves or tea bags and let the brewed tea cool for 5–10 minutes at room temperature, then stir in 1 cup of ice to rapidly cool it down. This yields approximately 2 cups of chilled strong tea (concentrated). If you prefer, transfer to the refrigerator to cool for 10–15 minutes.
Grapefruit & Sweetener
Prepare grapefruit juice
Roll the grapefruit on the counter to loosen juices, then cut in half and juice until you have 3 ounces (about 1/3 cup) of fresh grapefruit juice. Strain if you want a smooth cocktail without pulp.
Combine sweetener and acid
In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine 1 tablespoon agave nectar with 1/2 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir until the agave thins and dissolves into the lemon juice (this helps it incorporate into the chilled tea).
Mix tea, grapefruit, and agave
In a shaker or large mixing glass, combine 6 ounces (3/4 cup) of the chilled brewed tea, the 3 ounces fresh grapefruit juice, and the agave-lemon mixture. Add a handful of ice (about 1 cup) and shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds until well chilled and slightly diluted.
Finishing
Garnish and serve
Garnish with 1 grapefruit wedge on the rim and an optional mint sprig. Serve immediately while cold.