Raise your glass and say “Cheers!” – it’s International Mai Tai Day! The Mai Tai is a cornerstone of tropical cocktail culture, celebrated for its vibrant flavours that evoke the laid-back atmosphere of island-inspired bars. Created in America in the 1940s, this cocktail has grown beyond its origins to become a favorite worldwide. Whether you're a long-time fan of these drinks or just beginning to explore the world of tropical cocktails, the rum-based Mai Tai offers a perfect entry point.
What makes the Mai Tai so special?
The Mai Tai's story begins with Victor “Trader Vic” Bergeron, who crafted this iconic drink at his Oakland, California bar in 1944. Inspired by the flavours of the South Pacific, he aimed to create a cocktail that captured the essence of the islands. The Mai Tai features a vibrant blend of rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup (a sweet almond syrup), and orange liqueur, resulting in a balanced, refreshing drink with a hint of exotic sweetness. Typically garnished with a lime wheel and a sprig of fresh mint—and sometimes a slice of pineapple or a cherry for extra flair—the Mai Tai looks the part of a quintessential tropical cocktail.
Legend has it that when Bergeron served the cocktail to friends visiting from Tahiti, one of them exclaimed, “Mai Tai-Roa Aé!”—Tahitian for “Out of this world, the best!” And just like that, the Mai Tai was born. Its exotic blend and simple name have kept it a beloved classic for decades.
More tropical cocktails
While the Mai Tai may be one of the most famous tropical cocktails, it's just the tip of the iceberg. Here are a few other iconic drinks sure to whisk you away to island paradise:
- Zombie: A potent blend of rums, fruit juices, and spices, the Zombie is known for its complex flavours and high alcohol content.
- Piña Colada: Creamy and sweet, this blend of rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice is a beachside classic.
- Painkiller: A richer take on the piña colada, this cocktail combines dark rum with pineapple juice, orange juice, and coconut cream, topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
- Navy Grog: A refreshing mix of rums, lime, grapefruit, and honey, served over crushed ice, perfect for cooling down on a hot day.
- Blue Hawaiian: Vibrant and visually striking, this cocktail blends rum, blue curaçao, pineapple juice, and coconut cream for a sweet treat.
Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Take a look at our guide to the most popular cocktails.
The role of rum in tropical cocktails
None of the cocktails above would be complete without rum, the spirit at the heart of the Mai Tai. Rum’s versatility and rich flavour profile make it the perfect base for these drinks, offering everything from light, crisp notes to deep, molasses-rich undertones. The history of rum itself is as rich and varied as the drinks it creates, with origins stretching from the Caribbean to the broader world of spirits.
Rum facts: a quick dive
What is rum?
Rum is a diverse and versatile spirit made from sugar cane, whether it’s sugar cane juice, syrup, or molasses. Unlike neutral spirits, rum retains unique flavours influenced by the raw materials and production methods, ranging from light and subtle to dark and complex.
Colour doesn't define quality
Rums are often categorised by colour—white, gold, or dark—but colour alone tells you little about the style or quality. Clear rums can deliver bold, complex flavours, while dark rums can be surprisingly light and smooth. It’s all about the ingredients, fermentation, and aging process.
Regional variations
The flavour of rum varies greatly by region. Martinique is known for rhum agricole, made from fresh sugar cane juice, offering grassy and earthy notes. Jamaican rums are famous for their bold, fruity characteristics - thanks to a high concentration of natural compounds called esters. Cuban rums are typically lighter and more refined, made from molasses and aged for a smooth finish.
If you’re intrigued by the complexity of rum and its many styles, consider exploring our WSET spirits qualifications. These courses offer a deep understanding of the world of spirits, including rum, providing insights that can enhance your appreciation and enjoyment of a variety of cocktails.
This blog post was written by Josh Beamish, Digital Marketing Manager at WSET. A devoted fan of Californian Pinot Noir and Italian Nebbiolo, Josh's holidays often revolve around wine regions. When not sipping wine, he enjoys Belgian beer or a classic Negroni.
