Tiki/Polynesian drinks have exploded in the cocktail scene over the last decade. The amount of tropical themed bars is at an all-time high and showcase both old and new cocktails to create an escapism feel that allows us to forget the monotony of our day to day lives and transport us to a place of peace and relaxation. There are many Polynesian themed classic cocktails, but there is one that comes to most people’s mind when you say tiki drink: the Mai Tai. The Mai Tai is essentially a glorified daiquiri, which adds orange curaçao and almond syrup to the rum and lime juice. These simple additions add depth and texture to the drink, which produces a bright and velvety sensation on the palate. Our take on this esteemed tropical classic utilizes both dark rum and Lustau brandy de Jerez, which creates a bolder and more pronounced Mai Tai.
COCKTAIL: MAI TAI
Full Ingredients list
- 1oz Lustau Brandy Solera Gran Reserva
- 1oz Plantation Original Dark Rum
- .5oz Pierre Ferrand Dry Curacao
- .75oz Lime Juice
- .5oz Orgeat Syrup
- .25oz Simple Syrup (2:1 sugar to water)
- Garnish: Lime Wheel, Mint Sprig, and Cherry
Recipe author: Steven Dragun
WHO INVENTED THE MAI TAI?
The origin of the Mai Tai comes from Oakland, California. It was invented by Victor Jules Bergeron, aka Trader Vic, at his Polynesian themed restaurant in Oakland. In 1944, he tested a new drink on two friends, Ham and Carrie Guild, who lived in Tahiti at the time. After the first taste, Carrie proclaimed “mai tai-roa ae”, which means ‘out of this world – the best’ in Tahitian. Trader Vic simplified her statement and named the cocktail the Mai Tai.
WHAT TYPE OF RUM IS USED IN A MAI TAI?
Any aged rum will work well in a Mai Tai. Aged rum is preferred because it works in synergy with the orgeat (almond syrup). If you want to stay true to the original recipe from Trader Vic, try using an aged rum by J. Wray & Nephew from Jamaica.
WHY IS BRANDY DE JEREZ BEST TO MIX WITH A MAI TAI?
Brandy de Jerez is an ideal addition in the Mai Tai because it enhances the flavor of the dark rum. The sherry notes from the brandy de Jerez add complexity and body to the Mai Tai, which makes this cocktail smooth and delightful.
WHAT BRANDY DE JEREZ IS BEST FOR A MAI TAI?
Best brandy for Mai Tai cocktail is a Solera Gran Reserva. We chose Lustau Brandy de Jerez Solera Gran Reserva due to the oloroso sherry cask it is aged in, as well as its ten years in the barrel. The oloroso flavor and age of the brandy make our Mai Tai variation incredibly bold and dangerously drinkable.
HOW TO PREPARE A SIMPLE MAI TAI COCKTAIL
1. Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker.
2. Add ice, shake, and strain into a double old-fashioned glass filled with ice
3. Garnish with lime wheel, mint sprig, and cherry
FAQ
Who invented the Mai Tai?
The Mai Tai was invented by Victor Jules Bergeron, aka Trader Vic.
When was the Mai Tai invented?
The Mai Tai was invented at Trader Vics bar in Oakland, California in 1944.
Why is it called “Mai Tai”?
It’s called a Mai Tai because that is what his friend shouted after she had her first sip of the cocktail.
What does Mai Tai mean?
Mai Tai means “out of this world – the best” in Tahitian.
