Celebrate National Tea Day 2023 with 6 Tea-Infused Whisky Cocktails

Why is National Tea Day celebrated?

We don’t need an excuse to pop the kettle on in the UK. From dawn till dusk we love a mug of steaming hot tea. So it’s not surprising we have our own National Tea Day to honour the beloved brew.

Since 2016, the UK has celebrated National Tea Day on April 21 – a date chosen to coincide with the birthday of Queen Elizabeth to make it just that bit more British. From afternoon tea to tastings and talks, there’s plenty going on across the country.

Ready to mark the occasion? Get your cocktail shakers (and teapots) at the ready.

Top whisky tea cocktails for a tipsy National Tea Day

Iced Sweet Tea

You’re never too cool for a glug of classic iced tea. Sweet and refreshing yet super easy to make, there’s a reason this summer drink is always a crowd pleaser.

Mix whisky and iced tea with lemon wedges and mint for a thirst quenching beverage. We love it with our newest bottle, Ballantine’s 7 Bourbon Barrel Finish, a soft golden blend with floral, apple notes.

Pop the kettle on whilst you take a glance at our Iced Sweet Tea recipe. Cool yet surprisingly warming, it’s the ultimate British cocktail no matter the forecast.

Earl Grey Old Fashioned

Put the T in this timeless cocktail with a brew-inspired twist. Hints of orange, bergamot and bourbon mean this aromatic blend will go down a treat at home, a dinner party or in the office this National Tea Day.

You’ll have to plan ahead for this suave concoction. Infuse an Earl Grey tea bag with Ballantine’s whisky in an airtight container for 24 hours. Or create an Earl Grey simple syrup by adding a cup of sugar to freshly brewed tea. 

Add your tea-infused whisky or syrup to our Old Fashioned recipe and voila! Sit back and feel smug – you’re a true cocktail connoisseur. 

Iced Hibiscus Tea

Who said tea had to be traditional? This floral blend is sure to be a score at your spring soiree, made with freshly brewed hibiscus and a generous hit of whisky. Tart, red, sweet and spicy – sounds like a night you’ll want to remember.

Lemongrass, lime and basil add an exotic twist to your Grandma’s go to refreshment, whilst a splash of Ballantine’s 12 brings a pop of long lasting sweetness.

Discover how to make our Iced Hibiscus Tea Cocktail and enjoy this top whisky tea recipe.

Whisky Tea Highball

Love whisky? Love tea? This one’s a no brainer. Satisfyingly simple, you can whip up a batch in minutes that’ll keep you happy all night long.

Stir a shot of your preferred black tea with whisky and sugar syrup, pouring into an ice-filled glass. Top up with cold soda water and garnish with orange peel *chefs kiss*. 

Taking it easy? Make your Whisky Tea Highball with our new Ballantine’s Light. This bespoke new spirit is as deep and flavourful as our Ballantine’s Finest but with half the strength. Perfect for those who prefer a lighter drink.

Hot Tea Toddy

April showers got you down? We hear you hun. Spring isn’t always sprung here in the UK but that doesn’t mean we can’t get our par-tea on.

Add a bit of toddy to your tea with this fragrant winter warmer, perfect for cooler evenings all year round. Take our OG Hot Toddy recipe and swap out the boiling water for your favourite blend mixing in a bit of cinnamon, honey and lemon for some serious goodness. 

Try chai for a bit of extra spice or stay classic with your go-to English Breakfast. No matter your brew, this’ll be one to keep close in your cocktail repertoire.

Iced Green Tea Highball

As fresh as a clear spring morning, this whisky green tea is simplicity at its best. Crisp, light and undeniably classy, who could resist a glass come rain or shine.

Cool a pot of green tea and pour into a splash of Ballantine’s Finest for the ultimate cocktail and chill. Guaranteed to make you look the epitome of sophistication. You’re welcome.

Get the tea brewing and check out how to make your new favourite Iced Green Tea drink.