Cocktail: Mai Tai

By Douglas Habecker Translated by Ann Lee

Wine & Cigar Bar (Splendor Hotel)
1049, JianXing Rd, 12F
(04) 2328-8000
Hours: 12 pm-12 am
Credit cards accepted.

Bartender: Mark Lin
Summer is a great time for fruity, colorful drinks. In this category, it's hard to beat the classic Mai Tai, which was invented in 1944 in California by Victor Bergron, better known as "Trader Vic". Tahitian guests who tried it exclaimed, "Mai Tai Roa Ae!", which means "Out of this world--the best!". Trader Vic's namesake restaurant can be found in Taipei. However, folks down here in Taichung can head for The Splendor Hotel's recently-reopened 12th-floor Wine & Cigar Bar, where Mark Lin and his fellow bartenders are always happy to shake up a good Mai Tai. The bar's new look includes electronic darts, a Wii video-game system, large living room-like lounge, and VIP room with walk-in cigar humidor and wine cellar.

Ingredients:
1 oz Light Rum
1/2 oz Myer's Rum
3 oz Orange Juice
2 oz Pineapple Juice
1/2 oz Lemon Juice
1/2 oz Grenadine
1 oz Syrup
1/2 oz Amaretto almond liqueur

Instructions:
Fill a shaker with ice and add all ingredients except the Amaretto. Shake and pour into a large brandy glass. Garnish with orange slices, a cherry and, of course, a little umbrella. Pour Amaretto into drink and serve.