Is there pineapple juice in a Mai Tai?
Not in the classic build. The core spec is rum, lime, orange curaçao, and orgeat, with extra sweetener only if needed. Pineapple juice versions exist, but they drink like a different cocktail.
What rum should I use?
Use a flavorful aged rum. If you want the classic tiki approach, use a split base: one part funky Jamaican-style rum plus one part a richer aged rum. Historically, many retellings point to a split like Jamaican rum plus Martinique rum or rhum agricole. At home, do not overthink it. Use rum with personality.
Easy examples: Jamaican pot still funk + a rounder aged rum (Barbados-style or an aged blended rum). If you only have one bottle, pick an aged rum you enjoy sipping.
Do I need a dark rum float?
No. It is optional. A float looks cool and adds aroma, but too much can cover up the lime and orgeat. If you do it, keep it to a small splash.
What is orgeat, and can I substitute it?
Orgeat is a sweet almond syrup, usually with a hint of orange blossom or rose water. For a substitute, you can use almond syrup or even homemade quick orgeat (see below). Avoid almond extract in simple syrup unless you are very careful. It can taste artificial fast.
Why does my Mai Tai taste overly sweet?
Common causes: using too much orgeat, using a very sweet orange liqueur and still adding extra syrup, or not using enough lime. Orange liqueurs vary a lot. A drier curaçao will read less sweet than many triple secs. The Mai Tai should be bright and punchy.
Can I make it without a shaker?
Yes. Add everything to the glass, fill with crushed ice, and stir vigorously for 20 to 30 seconds until the outside of the glass is frosty. Shaking is just faster and more consistent.
