What is the float in a Mai Tai?

What is the float in a Mai Tai?

• A. Dark rum (float)
• B. Orgeat syrup (float)
• C. Overproof rum (float)
• D. Triple sec (float)

Answer: (C)

The float is a layer of overproof rum poured on top of the Mai Tai. Its high alcohol content makes it denser than the other mix, so when you pour it slowly over the back of a spoon it sits as a distinct top layer rather than blending in. In a classic Mai Tai you first build the base with ingredients like aged rum, lime juice, orgeat, and orange curaçao, then add this overproof rum on top to give a final aromatic kick and a striking presentation. The other components—dark rum as the base, orgeat syrup, and triple sec—are part of the drink’s mixture, not the floated layer.

The float is a layer of overproof rum poured on top of the Mai Tai. Its high alcohol content makes it denser than the other mix, so when you pour it slowly over the back of a spoon it sits as a distinct top layer rather than blending in. In a classic Mai Tai you first build the base with ingredients like aged rum, lime juice, orgeat, and orange curaçao, then add this overproof rum on top to give a final aromatic kick and a striking presentation. The other components—dark rum as the base, orgeat syrup, and triple sec—are part of the drink’s mixture, not the floated layer.