The History of Iced Tea

History on ice (tea, that is!) 

Iced tea is widely favored. If you’re reading this, chances are you regularly indulge in its refreshing goodness. Rest assured; you're not alone! As a matter of fact, in 2021, Americans consumed 85 billion servings, equivalent to 4 billion gallons of tea. That’s more than half of the population! 

Surprisingly, approximately 85% of all the tea consumed is in the form of iced tea. Quite astonishing, isn't it? While hot tea boasts a renowned ancient history, iced tea reigns supreme in the United States. But have you ever delved into the captivating history of this beloved beverage? 

Although tea isn't native to North America, the early colonists defied convention by cultivating tea in the southern colonies as early as the 17th century. Interestingly, the first documented recipes for iced tea in the United States emerged in 1876 and 1877, as recorded in several recipe collections. These recipes recommended a familiar method for preparing iced tea: brewing hot tea, allowing it to cool, and then enhancing it with sugar and lemon before savoring its refreshing flavors.

In the following decades, the beverage's popularity experienced a rapid surge. Interestingly enough, sweet tea initially gained traction in Boston but eventually found its true dominance in the scorching summers of the South. One can only imagine that if the internet had been available during that time, the widespread adoption of sweet tea would have likely occurred within a matter of weeks.

While the internet was non-existent during that era, a pivotal moment for the skyrocketing popularity of iced tea occurred at the 1904 World's Fair held in St. Louis. Among the fair's directors was Richard Blechynden, the Commissioner of Tea for India, who was showcasing hot black tea. However, faced with the scorching summer heat of St. Louis, the interest in hot tea dwindled rapidly. In response, they made the ingenious decision to serve iced tea instead. As necessity often sparks innovation, this impromptu adaptation became an instant sensation, captivating the taste buds of fairgoers and further solidifying the status of iced tea.

Observing the growing trend, restaurateurs swiftly caught on and started including iced tea on their menus. Additionally, people all across the nation began preparing the delightful beverage in their own homes. As the saying goes, the rest is history. Whether you fancy a black tea, a refreshing green tea, a spicy infusion, a fruity blend, or a fragrant floral variety, we strive to provide the very best options for concocting your favorite thirst quencher. Wishing you a delightful summer, dear friends!