-33%
Mai Tai
About This Course
The Mai Tai is a quintessential Tiki cocktail renowned for its vibrant blend of rum, fresh citrus, and rich almond flavor. Believed to have been created in the mid-1940s in California, it marries light and dark rums with lime juice, orange curaçao, and orgeat syrup (almond syrup). The result is a balanced, fruity‐nutty drink that evokes tropical escapism. Traditionally served over crushed ice in a double rocks or Tiki mug, the Mai Tai is garnished with fresh mint, lime, and often a spent lime shell, lending both aroma and visual flair.
Learning Objectives
Historical Origins & Evolution: Explore how the Mai Tai was invented by Victor J. “Trader Vic” Bergeron (or, by some accounts, Donn Beach) and how it shaped Tiki culture.
Ingredient Selection: Learn why orgeat syrup is indispensable, how to choose complementary rums (aged vs. dark), and the role of fresh lime juice.
Proportions & Balance: Master classic ratios (two rums : one lime : one curaçao : half orgeat) to achieve a harmonious interplay of sweetness, acidity, and almond depth.
Mixing Techniques: Practice shaking with crushed ice to create the signature frosty texture and correct dilution.
Garnishing & Presentation: Discover professional garnishing methods—mint sprig, lime shell, optional passion‐fruit froth—to enhance aroma and visual impact.
Variation & Customization: Experiment with fruit infusions (pineapple, passion fruit), flavored syrups, or alternate rum blends for personalized twists.
Tasting & Evaluation: Hone your palate to detect balance points, ensuring the nutty almond note complements but does not overpower.
Material Includes
- Recipe Card (PDF): Step‐by‐step instructions detailing ingredients, measurements, and preparation notes.
- Ingredient Checklist: Shopping list specifying recommended rum brands, orgeat sources (or DIY recipe), fresh limes, and curaçao options.
- Garnish Template: Printable guide for cutting fresh mint sprigs, preparing spent lime shells, and creating optional fruit froth.
- Tasting Notes Worksheet: Structured form to record impressions of balance, aroma, and sweetness across various rum blends.
- Troubleshooting FAQs: Tips for common issues (e.g., overly sweet, too tart, lost almond note, over‐dilution).
Requirements
- Requirements:
- 30 ml white rum
- 30 ml aged dark rum
- 15 ml orange curaçao (or triple sec)
- 15 ml orgeat syrup
- 15 ml fresh lime juice
- Ice cubes
- Mint sprig (for garnish)
- Lime half-wheel (for garnish)
Target Audience
- Home Enthusiasts & Tiki Fans: Anyone wanting to bring the Polynesian vibe into their backyard or home bar.
- Aspiring Bartenders & Hospitality Students: Individuals aiming to grasp a foundational Tiki cocktail and its historical context.
- Rum Aficionados: Patrons who want to explore how different rum styles interplay with citrus and almond.
- Party Hosts & Entertainers: Those planning tropical‐themed gatherings who wish to impress guests with an authentic Mai Tai.
- Culinary & Beverage Students: Learners interested in cocktail structure, balance, and the history of mid‐century mixology.
Curriculum
4 Lessons1h 13m