Mai Tai 44

The Mai Tai is a classic cocktail. It is truly a masterpiece of mixology and the shining jewel in the crown of Trader Vic, its inventor. The story goes that he was experimenting with the drink and handed off a sample to a couple of friends who responded in Tahitian, “Maita’i roa ae!” Out of this world, the best! And made properly, it IS one of the best rum drinks you’ll ever taste.

The Vultures, of course, are never happy with leaving well enough alone. So here’s our very-slightly-tweaked version, including a hint of passionfruit.

In a shaker:

1 ounce freshly-squeezed lime juice
1/2 ounce orange curaçao
1/4 ounce orgeat syrup
1/2 ounce passionfruit syrup
1 ounce aged Jamaican rum
1 ounce Martinique rum

Shake vigorously. Pour unstrained into a double rocks glass.

There is a traditional garnish that involves using half a squeezed lime — which we refer to as a “shell” — and placing it atop the drink. That’s your “island.” Then add a healthy sprig of mint to represent a palm tree. At this point a straw is enough — but to make it even more festive and special, spear a pineapple chunk with a cherry and add it to remind you of a tropical sunset. An umbrella would be nice, too.

Don’t let this frippery fool you — this is a concoction for two-fisted rum drinkers and you should go carefully with it. Aloha!