Kowloon mai tai: what it is and where to find it

Kowloon is a brand we carry at CBC Liquors in Westford, and the Kowloon brand page shows what is in stock today, with our own best sellers first. This guide explains what makes a mai tai, how to build one at home, and how to shop for it.

Where do you see Kowloon products in stock?

Start at the Kowloon brand page. It lists what we have from that maker right now, with the items our customers reach for first at the top. Stock changes, so that page is a better guide than anything we could write here.

If you are after something specific and do not see it, call the shop or stop by at 142 Littleton Rd, Westford. We can tell you what is on the shelf, and we are open every day.

If you are hunting for a bottle that is hard to find, the same goes: ask us. Our allocated items page is also worth a look for limited releases.

What is in a mai tai?

A classic mai tai is a rum drink. The usual build is aged rum, orange liqueur, lime juice, and an almond-flavored syrup called orgeat. Some recipes add a little simple syrup, and many finish with a float of dark rum on top.

The result should taste of lime and rum first, with almond and orange behind it. It is meant to be tart and a little nutty, not a sugary fruit punch.

People also use ready-made mixes for convenience. Whether you build from scratch or use a mix, the rum you pick sets the character of the drink.

Which rum works best in a mai tai?

Rum is the backbone, so choose it with care. Aged rums bring caramel, vanilla and spice notes that stand up to lime and orgeat. Many bartenders blend two rums: one lighter and one darker or more pot-still in style.

Browse our full rum selection to compare styles. If you want a spiced profile, Captain Morgan Spiced Rum is one we stock, though a traditional mai tai usually calls for an unspiced rum.

For the orange part, a dry curaçao or triple sec from our liqueur shelves works well.

How do you make one at home?

A simple home version uses two ounces of aged rum, half an ounce of orange liqueur, three quarters of an ounce of fresh lime juice, and half an ounce of orgeat. Shake everything hard with plenty of ice, then strain over fresh crushed or cubed ice.

Garnish with a lime half and a sprig of mint. Fresh lime juice matters here; bottled juice flattens the drink.

If you are using a mix, follow the directions on the label for the ratio of mix to rum, and taste before you serve. Adjust with a squeeze of lime if it seems too sweet.

What else do you need to stock the bar?

A mai tai needs ice, limes, and a few mixers. Our mixers category covers the basics if you are building a bar for a party or a quiet weekend.

If you are making a few different drinks for guests, think about a second spirit as well. Some people pair the rum drink with a vodka option such as Tito's Vodka for guests who prefer something simpler.

For larger gatherings, our party planner page can help you work out what to gather.

What food goes with a mai tai?

The tart lime and almond notes pair well with grilled pork, shrimp, pineapple, and anything with a sweet glaze. Spicy dishes also work, because the citrus cuts the heat.

Lighter appetizers such as coconut shrimp or skewers are easy matches for a party. If you serve the drink as a welcome cocktail, keep the food salty and simple.

Serve it cold, in a short glass, and keep an eye on how many each guest has. It is a strong drink despite how easy it tastes.

Can you get it picked up or delivered?

We offer pickup, delivery and shipping. Pickup hours match our store hours: Sunday 10 AM to 8 PM, Monday to Thursday 10 AM to 9 PM, and Friday and Saturday 10 AM to 10 PM.

Delivery runs Sunday 10 AM to 7:30 PM, Monday to Thursday 10 AM to 8:30 PM, and Friday and Saturday 10 AM to 9:30 PM. Check our delivery areas to see whether your town is covered, including Chelmsford, Acton and Lowell.

Read our shipping policy before ordering a bottle to be sent.