Oolong Apricot First Light

Oolong brings a rounded, slightly toasted tea flavor that suits apricot's mellow sweetness. Lemon gives the finish some brightness without taking over the glass. Apricot nectar can be thick, so stir it well into the cooled tea rather than letting it settle in a layer. Brew the oolong for the time on its packet; very strong tea will overshadow the fruit. This is a fuller-flavored iced tea with a soft stone-fruit finish, and it contains caffeine.

Ingredients

• 1 tea bag Oolong tea
• 6 oz Water
• 2 oz Apricot nectar
• 1/4 oz Lemon juice

Make it

1. Brew the tea in the measured water, using the temperature and steeping time on its packet. Remove the tea bag.
2. Cool the tea in a heatproof container, then chill for about 30 minutes.
3. Mash any soft fruit in a separate glass. Lightly bruise herbs or ginger; add these and the listed juices or spices to the cooled tea.
4. Stir well and taste. Remove ginger or herb sprigs when their flavor suits you. Strain if you prefer a smoother drink, then serve chilled.

Benefits

Lemon · a little vitamin C

Beside oolong and apricot, lemon offers a little vitamin C, used by your body for normal immune function, as well as a clean citrus sharpness.

A different side of apricot

There is a rounded, tangy stone-fruit flavor from the measured apricot in the oolong and lemon mixture, giving that ingredient a place without drowning out the other flavors.

Contains caffeine.