Mai Tai
The quintessential tiki cocktail featuring rum, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, and fresh lime juice. Tropical, complex, and legendary.
Ingredients
- Aged rum 2 oz
- Orange curaçao 0.5 oz
- Orgeat syrup 0.5 oz
- Fresh lime juice 0.75 oz
- Simple syrup (optional) 0.25 oz
Instructions
- 1 Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice
- 2 Shake vigorously for 15 seconds
- 3 Double strain into a tiki mug or rocks glass over crushed ice
- 4 Garnish with mint sprig and lime wheel
Tiki mug or rocks glass
shake
1
Mint sprig and lime wheel
The Mai Tai is the most famous tiki cocktail in the world, representing the pinnacle of tropical cocktail culture. It’s a perfect example of how complex ingredients can create something truly extraordinary.
History
Created in 1944 by Victor “Trader Vic” Bergeron, the Mai Tai was named after the Tahitian phrase “Mai Tai Roa Ae” meaning “out of this world, the best.” It’s considered the crown jewel of tiki culture and has influenced countless other tropical drinks.
Flavor Profile
This cocktail showcases the rich, complex character of aged rum enhanced by orange curaçao’s citrus notes and orgeat syrup’s almond sweetness. The lime juice adds bright acidity, creating a tropical masterpiece that transports you to a tiki bar with every sip.
Tips for Success
- Use a high-quality aged rum for the best results
- Orange curaçao is essential for the citrus component
- Orgeat syrup is crucial for the authentic flavor profile
- Fresh lime juice is essential - never use bottled
- Serve over crushed ice for the proper tiki experience
Tags
Source: Classic cocktail