Twisted Tea Light Var

Twisted Tea Light Var comes from the spiked-tea side of the ready-to-drink shelf. The "Light" in the name points to a lower-calorie take on the brand's hard iced tea. "Var" most likely means a variety assortment, so check the packaging for which flavors are in the box. Drinks like this usually combine black tea with citrus or fruit notes, a clean and slightly dry tea finish, and lighter body and sweetness than a full-strength hard tea. Expect more brewed-tea character than sugary punch, though the exact flavor and strength depend on the specific cans in the pack. These are built to be opened and drunk, so the most important step is cooling them thoroughly. Serve them cold, straight from the fridge or an ice bath, because the tea and citrus notes get flat and syrupy as the can warms. Drinking from the can is fine at a cookout or on a boat. For a better pour, use a tall glass filled with ice, which stretches the drink and keeps it cold without watering it down too fast. A highball or Collins glass suits it best, and a pint glass works too. Light spiked teas also work as a cocktail base. Pour one over ice and add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime, or a few mint leaves, for a quick long drink. A splash of club soda stretches it further and dries out any sweetness. If you want something fruitier, add a little peach or raspberry puree and stir. For food, the tea's tannin and citrus handle grilled chicken, barbecue, burgers, fried fish, and salty snacks like chips and pretzels. Lighter flavors in the pack also go well with salads, sandwiches, and mild cheeses, since a lighter drink won't overwhelm them.