Introducing our newest release, Island Vibe Lemon Iced Tea

The Summer 2024 pre-mixed Cocktail release is a passion project of one of our founders, Cory Hastings. You can find Cory throughout the day with some sort of Tea concoction in his hand as he has an interest in the health benefits and history of tea.

From the beginning of the Best Coast Distillery, Cory has wanted to curate a Tea infused Spirit to combine his knowledge and passion with a modern approach to “Hard Iced tea”. With the summer heat, it was a great day when he came over to one of our “Tasting Sessions” in my backyard with a jar of the first iteration of his “Lemon Iced Tea” …

We added a bit more lemon and sugar concentrate we had on hand from an old family recipe to make Lemonade, and Voil’a we had an awesome, refreshing Cocktail! From there it was go time! We decided the best Spirit for us to infuse with was our own Rogue Wave Vodka, triple-distilled with local grains from Saanichton farm. Cory settled on Assam Borengajuli Estate Teas, Assam tea is a popular type of black tea grown in the Indian state of Assam.

This flavorful tea boasts a rich supply of plant compounds that may boost immunity, as well as heart and brain health.

After cold steeping the tea, we add real lemons to the mix and infuse it with the Vodka for a very specific period of time. The addition of a small amount of Organic Cane Sugar helps to blend the ingredients together and reduce the tannins found in loose-leaf Orange Pekoe-style tea.

The Concept of “Island Vibe” was agreed upon fairly easily as we all saw value in trying to exude the Summer lifestyle in any coastal area! We see the Vibe as a balance of activity and relaxation and not taking things too seriously, actually a value set we all strive for throughout the year. We want this drink to be fun, easy to drink and consumed with friends whether on a beach, boat or BBQ with family.

Please enjoy this seasonal beverage and let us know what you think! Also, it is available for purchase online here @ 22% alcohol this is a lower alcohol level than most of our spirits. We find serving in a tall glass with ice, Island Vibe Club Soda and a twist of lemon is a great way to enjoy it!

Cheers!

Corey Wood, CoFounder Best Coast Distillers