As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that the Long Island Iced Tea is a mixed drink that typically includes a variety of spirits, including light rum, rather than dark rum.
The IBA's recipe for the Long Island Iced Tea calls for equal parts vodka, tequila, white rum, cointreau, and gin. These spirits are all clear in color, indicating that they are typically light spirits. Dark rum, on the other hand, is aged and often has a deeper, richer color and flavor profile.
In terms of taste, light rum tends to be more subtle and smooth, allowing the other flavors in the Long Island Iced Tea to shine through. Dark rum, on the other hand, can have a more robust and pronounced flavor that may overpower the other ingredients in the drink.
While the IBA's recipe does not explicitly specify whether to use light or dark rum, the use of white rum in the recipe suggests that light rum is the preferred choice. However, it's worth mentioning that variations of the Long Island Iced Tea may include dark rum or a combination of light and dark rums to add a different flavor dimension.
As a personal anecdote, I have had the opportunity to taste various versions of the Long Island Iced Tea during my career. I have found that using light rum in the drink helps to create a more balanced and refreshing flavor profile. The light rum blends harmoniously with the other spirits and ingredients, allowing the cocktail to be enjoyed without any single element overpowering the others.
To summarize, the Long Island Iced Tea is typically made with light rum, as indicated by the IBA's recipe. While variations of the drink may include dark rum, the use of light rum allows for a more balanced and refreshing taste experience.