The Mango Madras is a fun and tropical variation of the classic Madras cocktail, offering a smooth balance of sweet, tart, and refreshing flavors. Mango-flavored rum provides a fruity twist that sets this version apart, adding a hint of tropical richness. Equal parts orange juice and cranberry juice create a colorful base that combines sweetness with just the right amount of tang. Served over ice in a tall glass, it is simple to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Perfect for warm afternoons, happy hours, or casual get-togethers, the Mango Madras is a bright and refreshing go-to cocktail.
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Tasting Notes
The Mango Madras is fruity, smooth, and easy to sip. The mango-flavored rum gives it a tropical base that’s soft and sweet without being heavy. Orange juice adds a bright citrus note, while cranberry juice brings a tart finish that keeps everything balanced. It’s refreshing and light, with a mellow mix of sweet and tangy flavors. Each sip starts fruity and ends with a clean cranberry bite. It’s a great choice if you want something colorful, laid-back, and not too strong. This is a crowd-pleaser you can mix fast and enjoy any time.
Equipment and Glassware
You only need the basics for this drink. Grab a jigger to measure, a bar spoon to stir, and a citrus juicer if you’re using fresh orange juice. No shaker is necessary unless you want to chill and mix faster. A highball or stemless wine glass works best for serving something tall enough for ice and easy sipping. Chill your glass ahead of time or fill it with ice before you pour to keep the drink cold. You can garnish with an orange slice or lime wedge, but it’s optional for casual service.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz mango-flavored rum
- 1.5 oz orange juice
- 1.5 oz cranberry juice
- Garnish: lime wheel
Instructions
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour in the mango rum, orange juice, and cranberry juice.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
Pro Tips
- Chill your ingredients before mixing to keep the drink cold.
- Stir gently don’t shake, or the juices can get too foamy.
- For a layered look, pour cranberry juice slowly over the back of a spoon.
- Use fresh orange juice if possible for a brighter flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lime if you want it more tart.
- Swap in coconut rum for a variation with a tropical twist.
- Garnish with a slice of mango or citrus wedge for extra color.
When to Serve
The Mango Madras is perfect for brunch, poolside hangs, or anytime you need an easy, fruity drink. It’s a low-effort, high-reward cocktail that fits into almost any casual setting especially in warm weather. It’s great for parties, beach days, or a quick happy hour mix at home. Since it’s not too strong and easy to batch, it works well for groups and daytime events. Serve it when you want something simple and fruity that doesn’t take much to pull together.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Mango Rum: BACARDÍ Mango is the standard, but Captain Morgan or Malibu Mango work too
- Orange Juice: Use fresh-squeezed or pulp-free for smoother texture
- Cranberry Juice: Ocean Spray, Lakewood, or a 100% cranberry blend (not cranberry cocktail if too sweet)
- Garnish (Optional): Orange wedge, lime wheel, or mango slice
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz mango-flavored rum
- 1.5 oz orange juice
- 1.5 oz cranberry juice
- Garnish: lime wheel
Instructions
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour in the mango rum, orange juice, and cranberry juice.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with lime wheel.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Chill all ingredients ahead of time to keep it crisp without watering it down.
- Want a layered look? Pour the cranberry juice last over the back of a spoon.
- You can shake the ingredients with ice for a slightly frothier finish.