It's the most famous Tiki cocktail in the world, and like many popular cocktails, it's got many iterations - and a great story. Here's a few things you may not know about this tropical rum delight!
The idea of a Mai Tai conjures up visions of easy living; lazy afternoons on soft sand, listening to the dulcet tones of a ukelele as you happily drift into utter relaxation...
OK, so it may be winter in New Zealand, but that doesn't stop you getting into the spirit of Mai Tai with a few fun facts - and delicious recipes.
Mai Tai Trivia
Q: Where did the name come from?
A: The word 'maita'i' is the Tahitian word for 'good'. It's considered the original tiki cocktail - a cocktail with a rum base, that's usually colourful, fruity, and lavishly garnished.
Q: When was the Mai Tai 'born'?
A: Despite the tropical connotations, the Mai Tai cocktail was actually created in 1944 in the slightly less tropical location of Trader Vic's in Oakland, California. Like any good cocktail, however, there is some disagreement about its origins; Donn Beach, owner of Don the Beachcomber bar, next to Trader Vic's, claims the recipe was actually inspired by one of his own recipes from 1933. Trader Vic's refuted the claim, stating, "Anyone who says I didn't create this drink is a dirty stinker."
Q: What does it taste like?
A: Good Mai Tai cocktails are nutty, rummy and with citrus notes. It's supposed to soothe the soul, with rich texture - and not too sweet. Think crisp, dry and boozy rather than sugary gloop.
Moscato Mai Tai
