Don's Mai Tai

ABV 21.3% / 2.8 Alcoholic Units

Primary Spirit: Rum

A Brief History of a Don's Mai Tai

The Don's Mai Tai is a deliciously rich and complex variation of the classic Mai Tai, crafted by the legendary tiki pioneer Donn Beach (also known as Don the Beachcomber). Unlike the sweeter, fruitier versions that came later, Don’s Mai Tai is a more refined cocktail with a perfect balance of tart lime, spice, elements of anise, and the deep flavours of an aged rum. This cocktail is the epitome of tropical sophistication, with layers of complexity that unfold with every sip.

Taste and Flavour Profile

Don's Mai Tai has a beautifully balanced taste of sharp, fresh lime juice, complemented by the rich layers and sweetness of Falernum, and the rich, dark notes of aged rum. The rum’s molasses and oak characteristics shine through, creating a deep, slightly anise base delivered from the Absinthe that’s perfectly contrasted by the brightness of citrus and a hint of sweet almond. The cocktail has a smooth, layered finish with subtle tropical undertones, making it both refreshing and complex.

Food Pairings

Don's Mai Tai pairs beautifully with tropical and island-inspired dishes, as well as more complex savoury flavours:

• Grilled Seafood: Dishes like grilled prawns, lobster, or mahi-mahi with a squeeze of lime perfectly complement the citrus, anise and rum flavours in the cocktail.

• Pork Belly: The rich, fatty flavours of slow-cooked pork belly or pulled pork tacos balance the brightness and complexity of the drink.

• Tropical Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing mix of pineapple, mango, and papaya highlights the fruity, citrusy notes of the Mai Tai.

• Coconut Shrimp: The sweetness of coconut pairs wonderfully with the tropical spiced sweetness of Falernum and the rich, dark rum in the cocktail.

Bar Equipment:

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger
• Hawthorne strainer
• Rocks glass

Ingredients

• 50ml 8yr aged rum
• 15ml orange curaçao
• 10ml Falernum
• 20ml Freshly squeezed pink grapefruit
• 15ml freshly squeezed lime juice
• 2 x dashes of Absinthe
• 2 x dashes of Angostura bitters
• 5ml Simple syrup*
• Garnish: tropical fruit or a brandied cherry, lime wedge and fresh mint

*Simple syrup - one part sugar to one part water. Gently heat in a pan until sugar has dissolved and allow to cool.

Method

• Add all ingredients into the shaker with ice and shake
• Pour into a rocks glass filled with ice
• Garnish with tropical fruit or a brandied cherry, lime wedge and fresh mint

What are the best rums for a Don's Mai Tai?

For a Don's Mai Tai, choosing a well-aged rum with rich, complex flavours is key to balancing the cocktail's tart citrus and sweet spiced notes. Here are some of the best 8-year-old aged rum options that would elevate your Don's Mai Tai:

• Bacardí Reserva Ocho: Smooth, with notes of dried fruit, oak, and spice, Bacardí Ocho brings a refined, balanced richness that enhances the cocktail's depth.

• Plantation Original Dark 8 Year Old: A blend of Jamaican and Barbados rums, this has deep caramel, banana, and spice notes with a hint of smokiness, perfect for the layered flavours of a Mai Tai.

• Appleton Estate Reserve 8 Year Old: Rich, complex, with flavours of toasted oak, fruit, and molasses, Appleton Estate 8 Year adds a smooth, slightly woody complexity to the Mai Tai.

• Ron Abuelo 8 Años: With a strong presence of vanilla, caramel, and subtle spice, this Panamanian rum adds a luscious sweetness and warmth to the cocktail.

Don's Mai Tai is a complex and refined version of the classic tiki drink, featuring layers of deep rum flavour, tart citrus, and anise spice. The cocktail strikes a perfect balance between refreshment and depth, making it a standout for those who appreciate sophisticated tropical cocktails. Paired with grilled seafood, pork dishes, or tropical fruits, and made with premium 8 year aged rum like Appleton Estate or El Dorado, this Mai Tai offers a true taste of tiki tradition.