The Derby Daiquiri, a classic tiki cocktail, was born in 1958 at the legendary The Mai-Kai Polynesian Restaurant and Tiki bar in Oakland Park, Florida. Created by the renowned mixologist Mariano Licudine, this tropical and refreshing drink quickly gained popularity and became the official cocktail of the Florida Derby in 1959. The Florida Derby sought a signature drink to rival the Kentucky Derby’s Mint Julep, and the Derby Daiquiri proved to be the perfect choice.
The Mai-Kai and Rums of Puerto Rico Collaboration
The creation of the Derby Daiquiri was a result of a collaboration between The Mai-Kai and the trade group Rums of Puerto Rico. The trade group used The Mai-Kai’s sales information to promote its member rums for over a decade. This partnership not only helped popularize the Derby Daiquiri but also gave both the Florida Derby and The Mai-Kai a significant publicity boost.
Serving the Derby Daiquiri
The Derby Daiquiri was served at Gulfstream Park during the Florida Derby, and in a memorable 1970 publicity stunt, sarong-clad waitresses from The Molokai bar at The Mai-Kai traveled to Kentucky to serve the cocktail at a pre-race party. This bold move ruffled some feathers among Kentucky Derby officials but further solidified the Derby Daiquiri’s place in tiki cocktail lore.
Recipe and Popularity
The Derby Daiquiri’s recipe was never a secret and was featured in numerous publications during its early years. The cocktail’s simple yet delicious recipe consists of orange juice, lime juice, simple syrup, and white Puerto Rican or Virgin Islands rum, blended with ice and served in a small wine goblet or similar stemmed glass. The recipe was included in Beachbum Berry’s seminal books, Grog Log and Sippin’ Safari, and was even featured on The Mai-Kai website.
Enduring Legacy
The Derby Daiquiri’s rich history and enduring popularity have made it a beloved classic in the world of tiki cocktails. Its association with The Mai-Kai and the Florida Derby has only added to its allure, capturing the attention of tiki and cocktail enthusiasts alike. The cocktail remains a mainstay on The Mai-Kai’s menu, a testament to its timeless appeal.
Derby Daiquiri Recipe
To make your own Derby Daiquiri, you’ll need:
- 1 1/2 oz. white Puerto Rican or Virgin Islands rum
- 1/2 oz. fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz. orange juice
- 1/4 oz. simple syrup
- 1 cup crushed ice
Blend all ingredients with ice until smooth. Pour into a small wine goblet or similar stemmed glass. Garnish with a lime wheel and enjoy your taste of tiki history!
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