A Pandan Mai Tai Cocktail
The Bandoeng’22 Tia Mia Pandan is a bold reinterpretation of the classic Mai Tai cocktail, one of the most famous tropical drinks in cocktail history. Known for its rich combination of rum, citrus and almond flavors, the Mai Tai has inspired countless variations in modern mixology.
In this version, the cocktail evolves into a Tia Mia style drink, where mezcal replaces rum to introduce a distinctive smoky character. The addition of Bandoeng’22 Pandan Liqueur brings a soft aromatic sweetness that complements the nutty notes of orgeat and the bright acidity of fresh lime juice.
The result is a layered cocktail where smoky mezcal, tropical pandan and citrus freshness create a complex and balanced drink with a slightly bittersweet finish.
The Bandoeng’22 Tia Mia Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 40 ml ( 1.5 oz) Bandoeng’22 Pandan Liqueur
- 25 ml (0.75 oz) Mezcal Illegal Reposado
- 25 ml (0.75 oz) Lime juice
- 25 ml (0.75 oz) Monin Orgeat
- 3 daches Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate Bitters
- 10 ml (0.5 oz) Orange blossom water
Preparation
Method: Shake & fine strain
Glassware: Tumbler with crushed ice
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Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
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Add the Bandoeng’22 Pandan Liqueur, mezcal, lime juice, orgeat, chocolate bitters and orange blossom water.
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Shake well until the cocktail is properly chilled.
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Fine strain into a tumbler filled with crushed ice.
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Garnish with dried lime or edible flowers.
A Pandan Twist on the Classic Mai Tai
The Mai Tai is one of the most iconic tropical cocktails ever created. Traditionally built around rum, lime and almond syrup, it became a symbol of tiki cocktail culture in the mid-20th century.
The Tia Mia variation replaces rum with mezcal, adding a distinctive smoky depth to the drink. In the Bandoeng’22 Tia Mia Pandan, pandan liqueur adds an aromatic sweetness that blends beautifully with the nutty character of orgeat and the smokiness of mezcal.
This combination creates a cocktail that feels both tropical and complex, while maintaining the balanced structure that made the Mai Tai famous.
Smoky Tropical Cocktails with Pandan
Cocktails that combine smoky spirits with citrus and sweetness often produce some of the most exciting flavor profiles in modern mixology.
In the Bandoeng’22 Tia Mia Pandan, mezcal provides earthy and smoky notes that contrast beautifully with the soft sweetness of pandan and the almond richness of orgeat. The addition of chocolate bitters and orange blossom water introduces subtle aromatic layers that make the drink even more intriguing.
For bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts exploring pandan cocktail recipes, this cocktail shows how pandan can elevate both tropical and smoky cocktail styles.
The Tia Mia cocktail is developed by bartender Thijn Koning.
Discover More Pandan Cocktails
Pandan is becoming increasingly popular in cocktail bars around the world thanks to its unique aroma and vibrant green color. With Bandoeng’22 Pandan Liqueur, bartenders can easily introduce this iconic Southeast Asian flavor into both modern and classic cocktails.
Discover more bartender recipes and inspiration on the Bandoeng’22 US Classic cocktails page, where pandan is used in a variety of refreshing, tropical and creative drinks.
