Gator’s Breath: Sophisticated Tiki Drinks with Orgeat
Sep 15, 2025
On the second day of our Christmas cocktail showdown, our friends at Bywater American Bistro served up a winter Mai Tai we now call Gator’s Breath. It is tropical, spicy and full of New Orleans soul. If you are looking for a tiki drink built around real orgeat, this one deserves a spot in your rotation. Our Creole Orgeat brings warm almond notes and subtle Creole spice that make the whole drink sing.
Gator's Breath Tiki Cocktail Recipe
A layered, aromatic cocktail with serious depth.
Ingredients
x @rw_turn2 for Bywater American Bistro
- 2 oz House-infused Pineapple Spiced Rum
- 1 oz El Guapo™ Creole Orgeat
- 0.75 oz citrus juice blend
- 0.5 oz Pierre Ferrand Yuzu Late Harvest Dry Curaçao
- 3 dashes El Guapo™ Polynesian Kiss Bitters
- Orange zest and a dehydrated lime wheel
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake until cold.
- Strain over fresh ice in a 12 ounce snifter.
- Garnish with orange zest and a dehydrated lime wheel.
How To Make The Infused Rum
The infused rum and juice blend are crucial to this cocktail. Here are the simple steps to prepare them.
House-Infused Pineapple Spiced Rum
Ingredients
- Pineapple pulp (from juicing)
- 1 broken cinnamon stick
- 1 star anise
- 1 bar spoon cayenne pepper
- 1 bottle of rum
Instructions
- Steep rum in the pineapple pulp, cinnamon stick, star anise, and cayenne pepper.
- Steep in the fridge for 24-72 hours.
- Strain out all solids and bottle the infused rum.
- Keep refrigerated and use within one week for the best flavor.
Citrus Juice Blend
Ingredients
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
Instructions
- Blend all the juices and bottle the mixture.
- Keep refrigerated and use within one week.
The Orgeat Anchor for Complex Tiki Drinks
Creole Orgeat gives this drink its backbone. It brings rich almond flavor with a hint of Creole spice that rounds the sharp citrus and bold pineapple rum. It creates a silky texture and deep flavor you cannot get from standard orgeat. This is tiki done right.
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
What is tiki orgeat?
A nutty, floral syrup essential to classic tiki drinks. Our Creole Orgeat adds a New Orleans twist with gentle spice.
What is the purpose of orgeat in tiki drinks?
It adds body, richness and balance. It softens strong spirits and citrus while giving the drink real depth.
Can I use another rum?
You can, but the pineapple spiced rum brings the flavor this drink depends on. If you are short on time, use a good spiced rum with a splash of pineapple juice.
What does Gator’s Breath taste like?
It is tropical, spicy and nutty with a creamy finish from the orgeat. Warm rum, bright citrus and Creole spice all come through.
