Twisted Tea's Hard Iced Teas are available in a variety of flavors, many of which you might typically associate with your standard, non-boozy iced tea, like peach, raspberry, and half-and-half (you know, half lemonade, half iced tea — aka an Arnold Palmer). And then, there's Twisted Tea Rocket Pop — a flavor I did not see coming.
What does Twisted Tea Rocket Pop taste like?
Before I even pop the top, I'm suspicious. So, let me get this straight — tea, with alcohol (already a big lift) that tastes like one of those cherry-, lime-, and blue raspberry-flavored popsicles that you might grab from an ice cream truck in your neighborhood? Okay, I'll drink it, but I'm not sure I'll love it.
After pouring the bomb pop Twisted Tea into a glass, I was struck by an authentic rocket pop scent. Kudos to Twisted Teas for nailing the sweet and sour (and, you know, super artificial) aroma of the icy treat. It was when I actually drank the stuff that it all went pear-shaped. I'm not sure I could have expected each of the three Rocket Bomb flavors (cherry, lime, and blue raspberry) to stand out when already competing with tea and booze, but my main flavor takeaway was ... melon? Yeah, I know. The sour hit of lime came at the end, which was welcome, but it already tasted a bit weird.
Was I tempted to pour this into popsicle molds? Sure. Did I want to drink the rest? Not really. Already a boozy tea (this stuff is 5% alcohol — the same as a Budweiser) seems like enough of a challenge, one that Twisted Tea has mastered if the original is any indication, which is a successful tea that happens to pack a boozy wallop.
The Rocket Pop flavor was fine, but a little too artificial (granted, a Rocket Pop is the same), a little strange-tasting, and a reminder of why I don't chase the ice cream truck when I see it. I think it wasn't a reminder of childhood but a reminder of ... honeydew. I really got melon with a sour chaser from this — and that's not a taste I need to experience again. I don't even like honeydew when it comes in a fruit medley.
Would I try Twisted Tea Rocket Pop again?
Rocket Pop is only included in the Twisted Tea Party Pack for a limited time this summer, probably for a good reason. This is a perfect drink for a backyard bbq because everyone will want to try it. Will everyone want a second one or even finish their first? Probably not. It's more of a novelty drink with a large dose of nostalgia than something you will reach for when you're looking to relax responsibly.
I am more tempted to try the many other Twisted Tea flavors, which may be more successful, like blackberry or raspberry. Or I'll stick with the new Arizona Hard Iced Teas, which have some pretty great flavors.
Where to Find Twisted Tea Rocket Pop Near You
If you want to try Twisted Tea Rocket Pop for yourself, you'll have to act fast, as it's only available for a limited time in select locations. You can use the official Twisted Tea store locator to find the nearest retailer that carries the drink.
Alternatively, you can order Twisted Tea Rocket Pop online from various websites that deliver alcohol, such as Drizly, Saucey, or Minibar delivery. However, keep in mind that these services may charge extra fees or have minimum order requirements.
How to Make Twisted Tea Rocket Pop at Home with 3 Simple Ingredients
- Fill a glass with ice
- Pour in half a can of regular Twisted Tea
- Add a splash of blue curaçao (which will sink to the bottom creating a beautiful blue layer)
- Add a splash of grenadine (which will float on top of the curaçao)
- Enjoy!
Other Flavors of Twisted Tea to Try This Summer
If Twisted Tea Rocket Pop sounds like it's not totally up your alley, you might want to try some of their other flavors this summer. Here are some of their most popular ones:
- Twisted Tea Original: Where it all started. This is the classic recipe that's smooth and refreshing that made Twisted Tea the brand we know today.
- Twisted Tea Half and Half: A well-balanced blend of iced tea and lemonade. It has the sweetness and tartness that you love from a good Arnold Palmer.
- Twisted Tea Peach: A fruity twist on the Twisted Tea Half and Half.
- Twisted Tea Raspberry: For fans of spiked berry tea, this might be for you.