The world of cocktails is full of iconic pairings, but few are as refreshing and effortlessly cool as the mix of iced tea and lemonade. This classic combination, known as the Arnold Palmer, has been a favorite for decades.
But what happens when you add a spirited kick to it? You get the John Daly, a cocktail that’s as legendary as the golfer it’s named after.
What is a John Daly Cocktail?
Simply put, John Daly is an Arnold Palmer with vodka. It takes the beloved non-alcoholic duo of iced tea and lemonade and elevates it into a simple yet sophisticated cocktail.
The drink is named after the charismatic and unconventional professional golfer John Daly, whose powerful drives and “grip it and rip it” philosophy made him a fan favorite. Daly’s larger-than-life personality is perfectly captured in this bold, refreshing drink.
The core ingredients are straightforward:
- Iced Tea
- Lemonade
- Vodka
The beauty of the John Daly lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can adjust the ratios to fit your taste, making it sweeter, more tart, or stronger.
Ingredients for the Perfect John Daly
While the recipe is simple, the quality of your ingredients will make a significant difference in the final taste. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Iced Tea: For the best flavor, use freshly brewed iced tea. Black tea is the traditional choice, but you can experiment with other varieties. If you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought iced tea will also work.
- Lemonade: Freshly squeezed lemonade is unmatched. The bright, tangy flavor of fresh lemons elevates the drink. However, a premium store-bought lemonade can be a great substitute.
- Vodka: The choice of vodka is crucial. A premium vodka will result in a smoother, cleaner-tasting cocktail. Good Boy Vodka is an excellent option, not just for its quality but for its mission.
- Garnish (Optional): A slice of lemon or a sprig of fresh mint can add a beautiful finishing touch and an extra layer of aroma.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Ready to make your own? Here’s an easy-to-follow recipe for a classic John Daly.
- Prepare the Iced Tea: Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Pour the water into a heat-proof pitcher and add 2-3 black tea bags. Let them steep for about 5 minutes. Remove the tea bags and let the tea cool completely. For sweet tea, dissolve sugar into the hot tea before cooling.
- Make Fresh Lemonade: Squeeze the juice from 4-6 large lemons to get about 1 cup of juice. In a separate pitcher, mix the lemon juice with 3 cups of cold water and sugar to taste (start with a half cup and adjust). Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Combine the Ingredients: Fill a tall glass (like a Collins or highball glass) with ice. Pour in the ingredients using your preferred ratio. A classic mix is:
- 4 ounces of iced tea
- 2 ounces of lemonade
- 1.5 ounces of vodka (we recommend Good Boy Vodka)
- Stir and Garnish: Gently stir the ingredients to combine them. Garnish with a fresh lemon slice or a mint sprig.
Tips for the Perfect Drink
- Use Fresh Ingredients: As mentioned, freshly brewed tea and homemade lemonade will give your cocktail a superior flavor.
- Chill Everything: Make sure your tea, lemonade, and even your vodka are well-chilled before mixing. This keeps the drink from becoming diluted too quickly.
- Adjust the Ratio: The perfect John Daly is subjective. Play with the proportions to find your ideal balance. Some prefer equal parts tea and lemonade, while others like a stronger tea flavor.
Delicious John Daly Variations
One of the best things about this cocktail is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few popular variations to try:
| Variation Name | Description |
| Spiked Arnold Palmer | A simple version using your favorite store-bought iced tea and lemonade. |
| Flavored John Daly | Add a fruity twist with flavored iced tea or lemonade, such as blackberry, raspberry, or peach. Good Boy Vodka offers ready-to-drink cans in these flavors. |
| John Daly with a Twist | Add a splash of cranberry or grapefruit juice for an extra layer of tartness. |
| Frozen John Daly | Blend the iced tea, lemonade, vodka, and a handful of ice for a refreshing frozen treat. |
| John Daly Mocktail | Simply omit the vodka for a delicious and family-friendly Arnold Palmer. |
Regional Variations
You can also adapt the recipe based on regional tastes:
- Southern Sweet Tea: In the Southern US, use a much sweeter, stronger brewed tea.
- Southwestern Agave: Swap the sugar in your lemonade for agave nectar for a different sweetness profile.
- Northeastern Maple: For a unique twist, try sweetening your tea with a touch of local maple syrup.
Health and Nutritional Information
Curious about the nutritional content? Here’s a breakdown based on the Good Boy Vodka ready-to-drink John Daly cocktail, which is a great low-calorie option.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 95 |
| Carbohydrates | 0g |
| Sugar | 0g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Caffeine | 25mg (from black tea extract) |
Good Boy Vodka’s version is sweetened with all-natural fruit juice and a pinch of Sucralose, making it a guilt-free indulgence with zero sugar and zero carbs.
Serving a Crowd
The John Daly is an ideal drink for parties and gatherings. Its versatility and refreshing taste appeal to a wide range of palates.
- Occasions: Serve it at summer BBQs, golf outings, poolside parties, or casual get-togethers.
- Food Pairings: The drink pairs well with light snacks like chips and dip, as well as grilled foods like burgers, hot dogs, and chicken.
- Batching for a Party: To make a large batch, simply scale up the recipe. Mix the iced tea and lemonade in a large drink dispenser, and either add the vodka to the dispenser or let guests add it to their own glasses.
Discover the Perfect John Daly
The John Daly cocktail is more than just a drink; it’s a tribute to a golf icon and a celebration of laid-back, good times. Its simple recipe and endless versatility make it a must-have in any cocktail enthusiast’s repertoire.
By using fresh, high-quality ingredients like Good Boy Vodka, you can craft a beverage that is both delicious and supports a worthy cause.
