Cobra's Fang

A dark or aged demerara rum from Guyana—such as El Dorado or Lemon Hart—is ideal because its rich molasses character stands up to the curaçao and orgeat without getting lost. Some tiki recipes blend a high-proof rum with a milder aged rum for layered complexity and a stronger backbone.

The Cobra's Fang is associated with the classic tiki era and is linked to Don the Beachcomber, the pioneering tiki bar and brand created by Donn Beach. The original Don the Beachcomber recipe was notably more complex than simplified modern versions, incorporating multiple rums and additional ingredients like falernum and fassionola.

Orgeat is an almond-based syrup with hints of orange flower water that adds a creamy nuttiness and subtle sweetness, balancing the lime acidity and the alcoholic punch of the dark rum. It is the same key ingredient that defines the classic Mai Tai.

The Cobra's Fang is traditionally served in a tiki mug or a large ceramic vessel to enhance the tropical presentation, garnished with fresh fruit and mint. A hurricane glass or double old-fashioned glass works as alternatives if you don't have dedicated tiki drinkware.