h Despite the name, this wildly popular cocktail shot doesn’t contain any tea at all. Instead, it's a fruity, slightly fizzy combination of whiskey, peach schnapps, sweet and sour mix, and lemon-lime soda. Let’s break down what makes this shot so loved—and how you can make it at home.
What Is a Green Tea Shot?
The green tea shot is named purely for its light green color, which looks similar to brewed green tea. It was actually created by the Jameson Irish Whiskey brand as a fun and approachable way to enjoy their product. It’s sometimes referred to as a “Jameson Green Tea Shot” or “Green Tea Shooter.”
So, while it may not offer the benefits of matcha or sencha, it does offer a crowd-pleasing flavor with sweet, tangy, and lightly fizzy notes that make it go down easy.
Ingredients You'll Need
To make the perfect green tea shot, you’ll need just a few ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your liquor cabinet:
- ½ ounce Irish whiskey (Jameson is the classic)
- ½ ounce peach schnapps
- ½ ounce sweet and sour mix
- Splash of lemon-lime soda (like Sprite)
- Optional: lime wedge or sugared rim for garnish
How to Make a Green Tea Shot
You don’t need to be a mixologist to make this drink. Here’s how to whip up a green tea shot in just minutes:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the whiskey, peach schnapps, and sour mix.
- Shake for 10–15 seconds until well-chilled.
- Strain into a shot glass, filling it about ¾ full.
- Top off with a splash of lemon-lime soda.
- Garnish with a lime wedge or sugar-dipped rim (optional).
Cheers!
What Does It Taste Like?
The green tea shot has a sweet, citrusy flavor with hints of peach and just a little warmth from the whiskey. It’s not overly strong, making it a popular choice for those who don’t typically love hard liquor shots. The fizz from the soda adds a refreshing finish that sets it apart from heavier shooters.
Green Tea Shot Variations
Want to switch things up? Try these variations:
- White Tea Shot – Replace the whiskey with vodka for a lighter flavor.
- Green Tea Cocktail – Double the recipe and serve over ice in a rocks glass or martini glass.
- Lemonade Twist – Swap the soda for lemonade if you prefer a tart finish.
- Non-Alcoholic – Try a mix of peach juice, limeade, and soda for a zero-proof version.
Bar Tools You'll Need
- Cocktail shaker (or mason jar with a tight lid)
- Shot glasses
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Optional: citrus squeezer or zester for garnish prep
Hosting Tip: Make a Batch!
Planning a party? You can easily multiply the recipe in a shaker and pour out multiple shots at once. It’s a perfect starter drink for birthdays, girls’ night in, or any fun gathering.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a seasoned cocktail lover or just looking for something new to try at your next get-together, the green tea shot is a fun and flavorful option. Its unique name and easy-drinking taste make it a go-to for both whiskey lovers and skeptics alike.
So while this shot might not have any antioxidants, it definitely delivers on flavor—and fun.
