Mai Tai: Classic Recipe for the Famous Tiki Cocktail

Cuba is widely recognised as the birthplace of great classic cocktails, where rum has always played a central role. The Mai Tai is one of the most emblematic drinks within the world of tropical mixology, appreciated for its balance between citrus, nutty notes and aged rum. This Mai Tai finds a particularly elegant expression when prepared with a rum of mature character, capable of adding depth without overshadowing the other ingredients. In this version, Ron Santiago de Cuba Añejo 8 Years provides structure, warm notes and a natural complexity that harmonises beautifully with the cocktail’s classic profile.

INGREDIENTS

• 50ml Ron Santiago de Cuba Añejo 8 Years Old
• 20 ml fresh lime juice
• 15 ml orgeat syrup (almond)
• 10 ml orange liqueur
• 5 ml sugar syrup (optional, depending on balance)
• Ice cubes or crushed ice
• Lime peel or mint leaf for garnish (optional)

METHOD

Add the rum, fresh lime juice, orgeat syrup and orange liqueur into a cocktail shaker.
Add plenty of ice and shake firmly for a few seconds to chill and integrate the ingredients.
Strain into a low glass or tiki-style glass filled with fresh or crushed ice.
If needed, adjust the balance with a small amount of sugar syrup.
Finish with a lime peel or a mint leaf to provide a subtle aromatic touch.

1.9 units of alcohol