The Drink That Broke the Rules: How the Long Island Iced Tea Became a Legend

The Drink That Broke the Rules: How the Long Island Iced Tea Became a Legend

Original Long Island Iced Tea

Strong. Smooth. Sneaky. The Long Island Iced Tea (LIIT) is one of the most legendary cocktails in the U.S., and Montebello has been bottling that legend since 1984.

This party starter was first mixed up by Robert “Rosebud” Butt in New York during the 1970s, but it truly blew up in the 1980s nightclub scene — think neon lights, disco balls, and wild dance floors. That’s when Montebello made it official with our ready-to-drink Original Long Island Iced Tea Cocktail.

With five spirits blended into one, it’s the kind of drink that tastes smooth but packs a punch. It’s why people still call it the OG of party cocktails.

If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re missing out on a sip of history.

Who We Are: The Story of Montebello Brands

📖 A Legacy of Innovation

From the beginning, Montebello stood for flavor, creativity, and accessibility. Our founder, Samuel J. Bernstein, knew that great spirits shouldn’t just be reserved for the elite. Over the decades, we’ve:

  • Blended whiskies and gins that became local favorites.
  • Created the first-ever wine cooler, a refreshing invention that changed how people enjoyed cocktails at home.
  • Launched the Original Long Island Iced Tea Cocktail in 1984, a bold ready-to-drink legend that became a nightlife icon.

Innovation isn’t a trend for us — it’s part of who we are.

🥂 From Classics to Today’s Favorites

Montebello is known for making drinks that are fun, flavorful, and unforgettable. Our portfolio includes:

  • The Original Long Island Iced Tea Cocktail – the OG that still sets the standard.
  • Flavored Long Islands – Peach, Mango, and Passion Fruit twists that bring variety to a classic.
  • El Condor Tequila Cocktails – our newest line featuring Pineapple Mango Margarita, Grapefruit Lime Margarita, and a Mexican Coffee Cocktail (which just won a Silver Medal at WSWA’s Battle of the Brands).

Whether you’re at a bar, a house party, or just unwinding after work, our ready-to-drink cocktails are made to fit right in.

🎉 Our Promise: Big Flavor, No Top-Shelf Price Tag

At Montebello, we believe good times shouldn’t break the bank. That’s why we focus on delivering bold, high-proof cocktails with approachable prices — because everyone deserves a taste of something special.

We’re more than just a brand; we’re part of your celebrations, your summer nights, and those unforgettable stories that start with, “Remember when we cracked open a bottle of…?”

🍹 The Montebello Spirit

From Prohibition to the present day, we’ve held onto one truth: cocktails are meant to bring people together. Our history may be long, but our mission is simple — to keep making spirits and cocktails that fuel memories, laughter, and connection.

So, who are we?
We’re Montebello Brands — the name behind classics and award-winners, the family that’s been pouring flavor since 1933, and the brand that proves good times don’t need a top-shelf price tag.

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