Post #338061 by GentleHangman on Fri, Oct 12, 2007 11:12 AM

Where I live the only brand of Orange Curacao available is DeKuyper, and it isn't really very good. Since I have to order a quality brand and have it shipped to me then I'm sticking with Senior Curacao of Curacao - and that's what I use exclusively now. I usually order 4 bottles at a time and it goes a long, long way.
For orgeat I use either Torani or Teisseire with the Teisseire having a slightly more natural flavor - but considering the amount used for a Mai Tai - to my taste is doesn't matter that much as long as you get the flavor notes you're looking for. The rock Candy Syrup I make myself using turbinado sugar and a touch of vanilla (and some white rum to retard ugly growth on the inside of the bottle) - and I keep it in the fridge.
Limes of course, I squeeze fresh for each drink.
Now, for ease of mixing if I have guests who want a "Real Mai Tai" I'll pre-mix the Curacao, Orgeat and Rock Candy Syrup in their proper proportions and keep it in one of those Rubber Maid plastic bottles - pouring about 1 oz. of the mix for each drink.
Now, for the rums - I only use Saint James Hors D'Age and Appleton Estates Extra (12 year old) - one ounce of each. I use this combination when I'm making "Real" Mai Tais . . . for any other type of Mai Tai I'll use brands of lesser quality.
What I haven't done yet . . . because I haven't mustered up the courage . . . is to use the Saint James with some of the Appleton Estates 21-year-old . . . maybe some day.