Brew a strong cup of black tea using one tea bag or 1 teaspoon loose leaf per 8 oz of near-boiling water. Steep 3–4 minutes, remove tea bag/leaves, then chill until cold. (You can use refrigerated tea or make this ahead and keep covered in the fridge.)

Build the cocktail

Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add 2 oz vodka, 3 oz cooled black tea, 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice, 0.5 oz simple syrup, 0.25 oz orange liqueur (if using), and 2 dashes of angostura bitters to the shaker.

Shake and strain

Cap the shaker and shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold. Strain into a highball or Collins glass filled with fresh ice (about 1 cup).

Garnish & Serve

Garnish with a lemon wheel or wedge and an orange twist. Optionally slap a mint sprig between your palms to release aromatics and tuck it into the drink. Serve immediately with a straw or stirrer.