This drink is a favorite of mine when I've had a bad day and just want one good stiff drink to put me in a better mood. I used to make them lots in Portland. I introduced a few people to them during Mardi Gras too. I ALWAYS use Tequila for this drink. It adds just the right zing. Some snobby drinkers insist that the only Long Island type drink that should have Tequila in it is in fact a Long Island . I don't personally agree, but you can leave it out if you want to. Just make sure to add a little more vodka in it's place.