The Arnold Palmer drink is a refreshing mix of iced tea and lemonade, named after the famous golfer who popularized this delicious beverage combination.
The Arnold Palmer is America’s favorite half-and-half drink – a refreshing blend of iced tea and lemonade. Named after golf legend Arnold Palmer, this non-alcoholic beverage has become a summer staple since the 1960s. Discover its history, variations, and how to make the perfect version at home.
What Is an Arnold Palmer Drink?
An Arnold Palmer is a simple yet brilliant combination of:
- Unsweetened iced tea (typically black tea)
- Fresh lemonade
The classic ratio preferred by Arnold Palmer himself was 3 parts tea to 1 part lemonade, though many modern versions use equal parts (called a “half and half”).
The Original Arnold Palmer Recipe
To make an authentic Arnold Palmer:
- Brew 3 cups of strong black tea
- Prepare 1 cup of homemade lemonade
- Combine in a tall glass filled with ice
- Garnish with lemon wedge (optional)
The Fascinating History Behind the Drink
The Arnold Palmer drink’s origin story is as refreshing as the beverage itself:
How It Got Its Name
During the late 1960s, Arnold Palmer was designing a golf course in Palm Springs. After a long day, he ordered his usual mix of iced tea and lemonade at lunch. A nearby woman overheard and requested “that Arnold Palmer drink” – and the name stuck.
From Golf Course to Mainstream
Palmer had actually been drinking this combination for years, often prepared by his wife Winnie after hot days at Latrobe Country Club. As his fame grew, so did the drink’s popularity through his fanbase known as “Arnie’s Army.”
Modern Variations of the Arnold Palmer
While the original remains classic, many delicious variations have emerged:
Flavored Versions
| Flavor | Description |
|---|---|
| Green Tea | Uses green tea instead of black for a lighter taste |
| Peach | Adds peach syrup or fresh peaches |
| Strawberry | Incorporates strawberry puree or syrup |
The John Daly (Spiked Version)
An alcoholic version typically made with vodka is called a John Daly, named after another famous golfer. For best results, use a quality blender when making large batches.
Commercial Success
Since 2001, the Arnold Palmer brand has partnered with AriZona Beverage Company to produce bottled versions. Some fascinating facts:
- Over 400 million cans produced annually
- 5th largest tea brand in the U.S.
- Available in 50+ varieties including Zero Calorie and Spiked
Pro Tips for the Perfect Arnold Palmer
Tea Selection
While black tea is traditional, experiment with:
- Oolong tea for natural sweetness
- Green tea for lighter flavor
- Herbal teas for caffeine-free options
Lemonade Secrets
For superior results:
- Use freshly squeezed lemons
- Make simple syrup (1:1 sugar:water)
- Consider flavored syrups like lavender or mint
For large gatherings, a commercial juicer can help prepare lemonade in bulk.
When to Enjoy an Arnold Palmer
This versatile drink shines in many situations:
- Summer barbecues
- Golf outings (naturally)
- Brunch gatherings
- Poolside relaxation
According to The Spruce Eats, the Arnold Palmer’s popularity stems from its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
The Cultural Impact
The Arnold Palmer has transcended beverage status to become part of American culture. As noted on Wikipedia, it’s been featured in films and remains a menu staple at country clubs nationwide.
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