This isn’t a political tea party. This is a social gathering centered on an alcoholic drink. But isn’t that really a political party? Whatever it is, this recipe is a shortcut to impart a sharp tannin and bitters flavor into an Old-Fashioned drink by using tea. Our recipe calls for bags of rooibus from Republic of Tea, but pick your own favorite brand. The milder the tea blend, the longer it may have to steep.

Tea Party 
1 cup vodka
6 bags of Red Tea from The Republic of Tea
8 slices of lemon
6 ounces of bourbon
1 ounce simple syrup

Place vodka in a sauce pan. Bring to boil, remove from heat, add tea bags and lemon slices, steep mixture 5 to 6 minutes. Remove lemon slices for garnish. Strain the tea mixture into a pitcher. Add several ice cubes. Pour in bourbon and syrup. Stir until chilled. Divide the mix into 8 Old-Fashioned glasses filled with cracked ice. Top with an ounce of soda water. Stir. Garnish each glass with a reserved lemon slice and a maraschino cherry.

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