Good Ol' Earl Recipe

Brew and cool tea

Brew 1 cup of strong black tea using about 1 tea bag (or 1 tsp loose leaf) per cup. Steep 4–5 minutes for a robust flavor. Remove tea bag or strain leaves and let the tea cool to room temperature (or refrigerate briefly). You need about 1 cup cooled tea.

Fill a mixing glass or shaker with ice.

Add 2 oz bourbon, 0.5 oz cooled strong black tea, 0.5 oz simple syrup, 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice, and 2 dashes Angostura bitters to the mixing glass. Note: if you prefer a more tea-forward profile, increase the tea to 1 oz and reduce bourbon slightly.

Stir briskly for 20–30 seconds to chill and slightly dilute the drink if using a mixing glass. If you prefer a slightly frothier, more aerated texture, shake vigorously for 8–10 seconds and then strain over ice.

Place 1–2 large ice cubes (or one large sphere) in a rocks glass. Strain the mixed cocktail over the ice.

Express the oils of a lemon twist over the drink by holding the twist skin-side down over the glass and giving it a quick squeeze, then run the twist around the rim and drop it into the glass.

Optional: lightly slap a thyme sprig between your hands to activate the aromatics and float it on top as a garnish.