Trader Vic’s Mai Tai

Embrace the tropical allure and indulge in the iconic Trader Vic’s Mai Tai—a masterpiece of mixology that transports you to a world of sun-kissed beaches and swaying palms. Conceived by the legendary Trader Vic, this enchanting libation captures the essence of paradise in a glass. As you embark on a journey to create the perfect Mai Tai, you’ll unlock the harmonious blend of dark rum, Guadeloupe rhum agricole, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, and lime juice, all combined to craft a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Join us in uncovering the art of concocting this timeless classic and elevating its presentation with a garnish that embodies the spirit of the islands.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 1/4 fl oz/35ml dark rum
• 3 tsp Guadeloupe rhum agricole
• 4 tsp orange curaçao
• 2 tsp orgeat syrup
• 1 fl oz/25ml lime juice
• Ice cubes

PREPARATIONS:

1. Prepare to embark on a journey to the heart of the tropics by gathering the key ingredients that embody the essence of the Trader Vic’s Mai Tai—dark rum, Guadeloupe rhum agricole, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, lime juice, and ice cubes.

ASSEMBLY:

1. Begin your Mai Tai adventure by blending the richness of dark rum, a foundation that sets the stage for the libation’s exquisite profile.
2. Infuse a touch of Guadeloupe rhum agricole, adding complexity and depth to the cocktail with its unique character.
3. Introduce the citrusy allure of orange curaçao, a burst of vibrant flavor that perfectly complements the tropical composition.
4. Enhance the aromatic symphony with orgeat syrup, crafting a harmonious balance that delights the senses and transports you to a beachside paradise.
5. Squeeze the vibrant essence of fresh lime juice into the mix, infusing a zesty tang that awakens your taste buds.
6. Fill a shaker with ice cubes, symbolizing the refreshing embrace of a cool ocean breeze on a sun-soaked afternoon.
7. Channel your inner mixologist as you vigorously shake all the ingredients, allowing them to intertwine and create a symphony of flavors.

PRESENTATION & GARNISH:

1. Gently strain the meticulously crafted concoction into a glass filled with fresh ice cubes, epitomizing the refreshing allure of an island getaway.
2. Elevate your Mai Tai experience with an artful garnish that embodies the tropical spirit. Choose from an array of tantalizing options, such as:
   • Pineapple chunks, reminiscent of the luscious sweetness of paradise.
   • Cherries, adding a burst of color and a touch of indulgence to your creation.
   • A lime wedge, a nod to the vibrant citrus notes that define the Mai Tai.
   • Sprigs of mint, infusing an aromatic essence that complements the libation’s profile.

As you raise your glass to Trader Vic’s Mai Tai, you’re not just savoring a cocktail—you’re embarking on a sensory journey to an island oasis. With each sip, you’ll be transported to a world where the sun-drenched shores of the tropics meet the artistry of mixology, creating an experience that transcends time and place.

The Mai Tai, a timeless creation by Trader Vic, celebrates the symphony of flavors that define the tiki culture—a harmonious blend of dark rum, Guadeloupe rhum agricole, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, and lime juice. The meticulous assembly of these ingredients creates a libation that dances on your palate, tantalizing your senses with every sip.

Elevating the Mai Tai experience further is the choice of garnish—a vibrant and colorful expression of the cocktail’s spirit. Whether you opt for pineapple chunks that evoke the sweetness of the tropics, cherries that add a touch of elegance, a lime wedge that pays homage to the cocktail’s citrusy notes, or aromatic sprigs of mint that enhance the aroma, each element adds its own layer of allure.

So, as you relish the tropical symphony of flavors and the visual delight of your chosen garnish, let the Trader Vic’s Mai Tai transport you to a world where time stands still, and the worries of everyday life melt away like the sun setting over the ocean horizon. With each sip, you’ll be raising a toast to the legacy of Trader Vic and the enduring appeal of a cocktail that encapsulates the essence of paradise.