Frisco entrepreneurs have added a smoky twist to a Southern staple. Smoke City Tea, headquartered at The Star in Frisco, officially launched on Oct. 27 with two bottled teas that combine traditional sweet tea with natural hickory and applewood smoke.

Founder’s Inspiration

Michael Gilligan, an Oklahoma native and lifelong barbecue enthusiast, conceived the idea while grilling in his backyard. He noted that sweet tea often accompanies smoked meats and wondered if the flavors could coexist in a single drink. The result is a line of smoked sweet teas that literally incorporate smoke flavor into the classic beverage.

Product Lineup

The initial offering includes:

• Original Smoked Sweet Tea – a smoky take on the classic Southern sweet tea, using hickory and applewood smoke.
• Smoked Jalapeño Sweet Tea – the same smoky base with a spicy jalapeño kick, sweetened with agave syrup.

Both varieties are sold in 16.9‑ounce bottles, contain all‑natural ingredients, and are free of preservatives. While designed to complement barbecue, the company also markets the drinks for tailgates, backyard gatherings, and everyday refreshment.

Launch Strategy

Smoke City Tea is using a direct‑to‑consumer model. Customers can order bottles through the company’s website, smokecitytea.com, and have them shipped nationwide. Gilligan says the launch focuses on these two flavors, but the company is already researching additional options based on consumer feedback.

“Consumer research in the South showed a real appetite for Smoke City Tea’s flavors, and we’ll add other popular flavors soon,” Gilligan said in an official statement. “We’re looking forward to pouring our savory, sweet and spicy Southern smoked sweet tea at the BBQ.”

Local Impact

The startup adds to Frisco’s growing reputation as a hub for innovative food and beverage ventures. By blending a beloved regional drink with the unmistakable aroma of barbecue, Smoke City Tea aims to attract both local residents and visitors seeking a novel taste experience. The company’s presence at The Star also supports the area’s broader economic development goals, creating jobs and expanding the city’s culinary offerings.

Looking Ahead

Gilligan hinted that future flavors could explore other smoked ingredients or regional twists, keeping the brand’s focus on “savory, sweet and spicy” profiles. As the company scales its distribution, it hopes to become a recognizable name not only in North Texas but across the Southern United States.

Original reporting: Local Profile (DFW) — read the source article.