Iced tea – a summer refreshment ritual

When the heat is intense and sugary drinks no longer offer the promised refreshment, you start craving something light, natural, and real. That’s when iced teas become the perfect choice – refreshing, fragrant, and pleasantly soothing companions on hot summer days.

Whether you drink tea every day or used to associate it only with cool autumn evenings, iced teas open up a completely different experience. They can become a refreshing drink at the lunch table, a stylish choice at a gathering with friends, or simply a delightful pause in the midday heat.  

A natural alternative that truly refreshes

Unlike most soft drinks or non-alcoholic cocktails, iced teas are a natural choice – free from artificial flavors, added sugars, or colorants. Made from dried fruits, herbs, flowers, or berries, they stand out with their rich aromas and subtle, refreshing taste.

They’re also a great option for families – many fruit teas are caffeine-free, making them suitable for children. And if you feel like experimenting, iced tea can be enhanced with slices of fresh fruit, sparkling water, or even coconut water to create summery, non-alcoholic mocktails.

A short story: from accident to global trend

Iced tea first gained popularity at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis. On a hot summer day, tea vendors noticed that visitors were avoiding hot drinks. One vendor decided to serve tea over ice – and it became an instant hit. Today, iced tea is a summer staple not only in the U.S., but also in Japan, across Europe, and in Australia. In recent years, it has also been growing in popularity in Lithuania. 

How to make iced tea?

1. The slow method (cold brew)

This is the gentlest and most refined way to prepare iced tea. Simply pour cold water over dried tea and let it steep in the refrigerator for 6–8 hours (or overnight). This slow infusion brings out the tea’s natural aromas, reduces bitterness or acidity, and allows you to enjoy a truly smooth and refreshing drink – with no rush. 

2. The quicker method

If you're short on time, simply brew the tea in hot water for 6–10 minutes, let it cool slightly, then pour it over a glass filled with ice. This method is perfect when you want a refreshing drink right away.

Both techniques work wonderfully with our selection of fruit teas. And thanks to the variety of flavors, you can find the perfect match for every mood and moment.

Which teas are best for cold brewing?

Our collection includes over twenty fruit tea blends, many of which are ideal for cold preparation: 

Our top picks for iced tea:

• Summer in a Cup – an exotic blend of orange, mango, and hibiscus.
• Cherry Punch – rich aroma of cherries and elderflower.
• Florida – refreshing mix of pineapple, apple, and rosehip.
• California – a balanced fusion of apple, hibiscus, and citrus fruits.
• Sunny Morning – lemongrass, pineapple, and a hint of coconut.
• Sea Buckthorn – a natural vitamin-packed blend with sea buckthorn and quince.
• Forest Basket – a classic composition of berries and blossoms.

Explore the full range of fruit teas at:
https://www.gurmans.eu/en/tea/loose-tea/fruit-tea 

We’re sharing three refreshing iced tea recipes you can easily make at home.

Summer in a Glass

You’ll need:

• 2 tsp Gurman’s Summer in a Cup tea
• 500 ml cold water
• 3–5 ice cubes
• A few slices of orange or mango
• A sprig of mint for garnish 

Preparation:

• Place the tea into a glass pitcher or other container
• Pour in cold water
• Refrigerate for 6–8 hours (or overnight)
• Strain and pour into a glass over ice
• Add fruit slices, garnish with mint, and enjoy!

Tip:

If you’re in a hurry, you can brew the tea hot and cool it down. However, the cold brew method brings out a more balanced and delicate flavor. 

Refreshing Cherry Punch

You’ll need:

• 2 tsp PRESTO Cherry Punch tea
• 400 ml hot water (100 °C)
• 3–4 ice cubes
• Cherries, lemon slices, or frozen berries

Preparation:

• Place the tea into a glass pitcher or container
• Pour in hot water and steep for 10 minutes
• Pour over a glass filled with ice
• Garnish with berries or a slice of lemon

Tip:

For a milder flavor, steep for a shorter time. Steeping enhances the natural berry sweetness. Bonus – this tea is caffeine-free, making it perfect for kids too!

Refreshing Jasmine Tonic

You’ll need:

• 7 tsp Gurman’s Green Tea with Jasmine
• 1 L filtered water
• Lemon slices or cucumber ribbons
• Mint leaves
• Ice cubes (optional)
  

Preparation:

• Brew the tea in 1 liter of water (90 °C) and steep for 3 minutes
• Strain and let it cool, or add ice
• Add lemon or cucumber slices
• Garnish with mint and enjoy a moment of pure calm

Tip: The delicate flavor of jasmine pairs beautifully with various citrus fruits. This tonic refreshes not only the body but also the mind.

If iced tea is still new to you – now is the perfect time to discover it. And if it’s already part of your summer ritual, we invite you to explore new flavors and combinations.
Let this summer be filled with taste, discovery, and moments of blissful pause.