Ben's Mai Tai: The "Out of This World" Mai Tai Recipe

A Mai Tai should be bright, balanced and never sugary. Trader Vic got it right in 1944 with rum, lime, curaçao and orgeat. The name means “the best” in Tahitian. Ben Treppa’s version lives up to it. This recipe leans on quality ingredients and thoughtful balance, including our Orgeat and Demerara syrups. The rum stays front and center where it belongs. It is a beautiful choice for beginners and seasoned home bartenders.

Ben’s Mai Tai Recipe

Yields one cocktail.

Ingredients

• 2 oz El Dorado 8 or 15 year rum
  
• 0.5 oz Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao
  
• 0.5 oz El Guapo™ Orgeat Syrup
• 0.25 oz El Guapo™ Demerara Syrup
• 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
• Crushed ice & cubed ice
• Lime wheel and mint sprig for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a shaker two thirds full with crushed ice.
   
2. Add the rum, curaçao, Orgeat, Demerara Syrup and lime juice.
   
3. Shake until cold.
   
4. Add cubed ice to a rocks glass.
   
5. Strain the cocktail over the ice.
   
6. Garnish with mint and a lime wheel.

DIY Demerara Syrup

A rich Demerara syrup adds caramel depth and makes your home bar feel complete.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup filtered water
• 2 cups Demerara sugar

Instructions:

• Bring the water to a low boil.
  
• Lower the heat and add the sugar.
  
• Stir until it dissolves.
  
• Cool completely.
  
• Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Why This Mai Tai Stands Out

This recipe respects the original while dialing back the sweetness. Aged rum gives structure and body. Orgeat adds gentle nuttiness. Demerara brings warmth. Everything sits in balance. Nothing overwhelms. It is a Mai Tai that feels intentional and polished.

Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo's homepage to explore everything we offer.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Mai Tai

What rum works best?

Aged Jamaican or Martinique rums shine, but El Dorado 8 or 15 year makes this recipe sing.

What is Orgeat syrup?

It is an almond syrup with sugar and a touch of floral water. It gives the drink its iconic nutty character.

Where did the Mai Tai come from?

Trader Vic created it in 1944 in Oakland. It became a global symbol of tiki culture.

Is a Mai Tai strong?

Yes. It has a high rum content and is served over crushed ice for slow dilution.

What is the difference between simple syrup and Demerara syrup?

Simple syrup uses white sugar. Demerara syrup uses unrefined Demerara sugar for deeper caramel flavor.