Mai-Tai
CLASSIC · AMBER JAMAICAN RUM

Mai-Tai

The Mai Tai is the definitive Polynesian classic, layering two distinct rums with nutty orgeat, orange curaçao, and bright lime into a cocktail that is simultaneously complex, tropical, and dangerously drinkable.

Ingredients
Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice30 ml
Simple Syrup7.5 ml
Crushed Ice
Pineapple Spear
Lime Peel
Glassware
Double rocks glass or highball glass
Chilled.
Flavor
BODYSWEETFRUITACIDHEATSMOKEEARTHBITTER

Almond · Caramel · Lime · Orange · Vanilla

Estimated profile

Method
  1. 1

    Add the aged Jamaican rum, dark Martinique rhum, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker.

  2. 2

    Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds until well chilled.

  3. 3

    Fill a double rocks glass or highball glass with crushed ice.

  4. 4

    Strain the cocktail over the crushed ice.

  5. 5

    Garnish with a spear of fresh pineapple, a generous bouquet of fresh mint leaves, and a expressed lime peel. Serve immediately.

From the Bartender

Trader Vic (Victor Bergeron) created the Mai Tai in 1944, allegedly serving it first to friends from Tahiti who exclaimed 'Mai Tai - Roa Ae!' meaning 'Out of this world - the best!' The split-rum base is essential: the contrast between a funky aged Jamaican rum and a grassy or molasses-rich Martinique rhum is what gives the drink its legendary depth.

Rating
4.0· 1 sip logged
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