You Actually Need 2 Types Of Rum For The Perfect Mai Tai

Which rums blend best in a mai tai?

To prevent the unintentional selection of low-quality rums for your cocktail, it's essential to consider both balance and complexity, as noted by Justin Lavenue. "A Mai Tai typically thrives on a blend of a rich, bold rum, such as Jamaican rum, which contributes deep, fruity, and spicy notes, paired with a lighter, smoother rum (like a Martinique or an aged rum) to achieve balance," he explains. Among Lavenue's Jamaican rum suggestions to replicate Trader Vic's original recipe are Appleton Estate's 12-Year-Old, Planteray Xaymaca, and what he refers to as the "more potent" Hamilton Jamaican Pot Still Black.

While one might think that the distinction between rums is simply a matter of light versus dark, this is not always true. For example, Martinique rums can be either light or dark, depending on their aging process, similar to other rums. To add to the complexity, the Martinique rum that Trader Vic used in the mid-20th century likely differs significantly from the rhum agricole associated with the island today. Instead of concentrating on color differences, Lavenue suggests choosing two rums that "highlight different flavors."

"One rum may enhance the bright, citrusy notes of lime and orange curaçao, while another could emphasize the rich flavors introduced by the orgeat, revealing hints of vanilla and caramel," he notes. "This combination of rums enables you to create a Mai Tai with a more intricate and layered flavor profile, enriching the overall depth of the drink."