Arnold Palmer Cocktail

The Arnold Palmer is a simple, refreshing classic mocktail that combines iced tea and lemonade in perfect balance. Named after the legendary American golfer Arnold Palmer, the drink became popular in the 1960s when he was known for ordering this exact mix both on and off the course. Its smooth, lightly sweet flavour and crisp citrus edge have made it a firm favourite ever since. Easy to make and recognisable by its light amber colour, the Arnold Palmer offers bright, familiar, flavours.

While the ingredients of an Arnold Palmer mocktail may be quite basic, its enduring popularity is a result of the excellent balance between two common drinks. The tannic, earthy notes from iced tea bring body and depth to the drink, while lemonade provides fizzy sweetness and a citrusy zing. The combination of these two elements makes the Arnold Palmer mocktail taste far more elaborate than it actually is. 

Arnold Palmer's association with the drink played a major role in its success. It started with customers ordering "the same as Arnold Palmer”, but soon, the mixing of iced tea and lemonade began being referred to as "the Arnold Palmer". Eventually, the drink became popular beyond golf courses and country clubs to places like restaurants, coffee shops, American homes, and eventually across the world.

What makes the Arnold Palmer mocktail such an adaptable drink is that there are several variations - some are primarily made of tea, producing a drier or assertive taste, while others are mainly lemonade, which creates a brighter or sweeter taste. Different types of tea (black, green, and herb-forward) can contribute to the overall taste of the drink, as can seasonal additions such as fresh berries, mint, peaches, and citrus slices.

 The Arnold Palmer is an easy drink to assemble with ice and a garnish of either a lemon wheel, lemon wedge, or mint leaf in a tall glass. Using clear ice and homemade lemonade, along with freshly brewed tea, will turn this classic beverage into something polished and flavourful enough for any occasion.

How to Make an Arnold Palmer Mocktail: Important Tips

Love the Arnold Palmer mocktail? Here are a few things you can do to create the perfect glass of this mixed beverage

- Use only freshly brewed tea, and chill it completely before mixing.

- Balance the tea and lemonade to your own sweet taste; don’t focus excessively on either ingredient

- Serve over plenty of fresh ice and add lemon slices or mint as a garnish for an extra touch of citrus or herb.