I need not go into detail about the demise of this drink following its perfectly noble origin, as plenty have done before. The original cocktail is balanced, citrusy, rich with a lush almond syrup called orgeat, and mysterious in aroma due to rum's inherent complexity. What a shame that this cocktail is relatively strong, as it seems to be best enjoyed during daylight hours. Sipping one at sunset brings the ideal compromise. Here is a link about the original recipe, a bright and thirst-quenching legend. Finding the proportions in the classic to be bracing in alcohol heat and in citrus acidity, I adapted the recipe to suit my personal taste preference.
Mai Tai
Mai Tai
- 1 ¾ ounces dark rum, as good as you can get (Vic preferred Jamaican and aged)
- ¾ ounce fresh lime juice
- scant ½ ounce orange curaçao
- scant ½ ounce orgeat
- 1 barspoon simple syrup