Tipsy Palmers Recipes

Steps:

• Place tea bags in a medium bowl. Add 1/2 cup boiling water. Let steep 4 minutes. Squeeze excess water from tea bags then discard tea bags. Place mint sprigs in large pitcher; mash with muddler or handle of wooden spoon until slightly bruised. Pour in tea, lemonade and vodka. Cover and chill. Fill 8 highball glasses with ice. Divide tea mixture over glasses. Serve with lemon slice or wedge. Can be made one day ahead.

Steps:

• Combine the sugar and 1 cup water in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring, until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from the heat and add the mint and lemon zest. Transfer the syrup to a liquid measuring cup or bowl, cover and refrigerate until very cold, at least 1 hour.
• Meanwhile, bring 3 cups water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the tea bags, remove from the heat and let steep 10 minutes. Discard the bags, then pour the tea into a 64-ounce jar and refrigerate until very cold, at least 2 hours.
• Strain the syrup into the jar. Add the lemon juice, bourbon and bitters, if using. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
• To serve, pour into glasses filled with crushed ice and garnish with lemon slices and mint sprigs.