Cocktail
Miami Vice
The Miami Vice is a vibrant cocktail that combines the tropical flavors of a piña colada and a strawberry daiquiri, creating a visually stunning drink with its signature layered appearance. Served in a tall glass, this refreshing blend features rum, coconut cream, and fresh strawberries, making it a perfect choice for sun-soaked days by the beach. Its colorful presentation and delicious taste evoke the lively spirit of Miami's nightlife.
- tropical
- fruity
- creamy
- refreshing
- Prep Time
- 5 min
- Glass
- Cocktail glass
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Yields
- 1 serving
At its core, the Miami Vice is a rum-forward cocktail that takes about 5 minutes to make. The result is tropical and fruity — worth every second. Consistently one of the most popular tropical party searches, and for good reason.
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Ingredients
- Serves
- 1 serving
- Glass
- Cocktail glass
- Prep
- 5 min
- 5 oz Bacardi151 proof rum
- frozenPina colada mix
- frozenDaiquiri mix
Method
Preparation
- 01
First: Mix pina colada with 2.5 oz. of rum with ice(set aside). Second: Mix daiquiri with 2.5 oz. of rum with ice. Third: While frozen, add pina colda mix then daiquiri mix in glass (Making sure they do not get mixed together).
Origin
History & Origins
The Miami Vice emerged in the 1980s-90s as a visual and flavorful statement, capturing the vibrant energy of Miami's cultural renaissance. Named after the iconic TV series, this two-toned cocktail represents the intersection of Caribbean tropical flavors and contemporary pop culture, symbolizing the decadence and fusion of flavors that defined Miami's identity.
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Bartender’s Insight
Pro Tips
Pour the two liqueurs simultaneously or separately for layered effect
From Kai
use equal parts rum and frozen juice for balanced flavor and consistency
serve in a tall glass with crushed ice for maximum visual impact and proper dilution
At the Table
Perfect Pairings
Beyond the Classic
Variations
Virgin Miami Vice
Non-alcoholic version using coconut cream and strawberry syrup with tropical juice
Spiced Miami Vice
Uses spiced rum and adds cardamom bitters for warmth
Miami Sunset
Transitions from pink to orange for sunset aesthetic effect
Questions
Frequently Asked
- The Miami Vice has a flavor profile that is tropical, fruity, creamy, refreshing. It is crafted to balance these characteristics into a harmonious, satisfying drink that appeals to a wide range of palates.
- The Miami Vice is ideal for beach parties, tropical-themed events, summer barbecues. Its flavor profile and presentation make it a versatile choice that works equally well as a social cocktail or a relaxed evening drink.
- Yes, there are several ways to adapt a Miami Vice. If you cannot source 151 proof rum, look for a similar alternative that matches its flavor profile. Keep in mind that substitutions may alter the balance of the cocktail, so start with a smaller quantity and adjust to taste. The variations section above lists popular alternatives bartenders use.
- Some of the most popular Miami Vice variations include Virgin Miami Vice, Spiced Miami Vice, Miami Sunset. Each variation puts a unique twist on the original recipe while retaining the essential character of the classic cocktail.
- The Miami Vice is traditionally served in a Cocktail glass. Using the right glassware is important because it affects the aroma, temperature retention, and overall drinking experience. If you do not have a Cocktail glass on hand, a similar shaped glass will work.
- Yes, a mocktail version of the Miami Vice is possible. Replace the base spirit with a non-alcoholic spirit alternative (there are many quality options available) and keep all other components the same. The result will capture much of the original's flavor profile while being suitable for guests who prefer alcohol-free options.
Other Rum Cocktails
Bounty Hunter
The Bounty Hunter is a tropical cocktail that captures the essence of adventure with its vibrant blend of rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice, complemented by a hint of lime. Served over crushed ice and garnished with a slice of fresh pineapple or a cherry, this refreshing drink transports you to a sun-soaked beach, making it the perfect escape for any occasion.
Frozen Daiquiri
The Frozen Daiquiri is a refreshing and vibrant cocktail that blends rum, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup with crushed ice, creating a slushy texture perfect for warm weather. Often garnished with a lime wheel or cherry, this tropical drink offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, making it a popular choice for beachside sipping or summer gatherings. Enjoy its icy allure as you unwind and savor the flavors of the tropics!
Casa Blanca
The Casa Blanca is a refreshing cocktail that combines the smoothness of white rum with the zesty brightness of fresh lime juice and the subtle sweetness of orange liqueur. Often garnished with a twist of citrus, this drink offers a delightful balance of flavors, making it a perfect choice for warm evenings or beachside lounging. Its elegant presentation and vibrant taste evoke the charm of its namesake, transporting you to a sun-soaked paradise with every sip.
Bacardi Cocktail
The Bacardi Cocktail is a refreshing and vibrant mix that showcases the smoothness of Bacardi rum, complemented by fresh lime juice and a touch of grenadine for a hint of sweetness. Served chilled in a classic cocktail glass, this drink is perfect for those seeking a tropical escape with a balanced flavor profile. Its bright red hue and zesty notes make it a delightful choice for any occasion.
Other beach parties Cocktails
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Zima Blaster
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Aquamarine
The Aquamarine cocktail is a refreshing and vibrant drink that captures the essence of the ocean with its stunning blue hue. Made with a blend of gin, blue curaçao, and fresh citrus juices, it offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making it an ideal choice for a sunny day or a festive gathering. Garnished with a slice of lime and a sprig of mint, this cocktail is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Adios Amigos Cocktail
The Adios Amigos Cocktail is a vibrant and refreshing drink that combines the bold flavors of vodka, rum, gin, and blue curaçao, creating a striking blue hue. Topped with a splash of sweet and tangy citrus juices, this tropical concoction is perfect for those looking to kick back and enjoy a taste of summer, no matter the season. Its playful name and eye-catching appearance make it a fun addition to any cocktail party.
Similar Flavor Profiles
A Gilligan's Island
A Gilligan's Island is a tropical cocktail that transports you to a sun-soaked paradise with every sip. This refreshing blend typically features rum, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and a splash of grenadine, garnished with a cherry and a slice of pineapple. Perfect for a beach getaway or a backyard gathering, it captures the essence of carefree island living.
Fruit Flip-Flop
The Fruit Flip-Flop is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail that combines the sweetness of ripe tropical fruits with a splash of citrus and a hint of mint. Served over crushed ice and garnished with a colorful fruit skewer, this delightful drink is perfect for summer gatherings or a relaxing day by the pool. Its playful blend of flavors will have you flipping for more!
Kiwi Papaya Smoothie
The Kiwi Papaya Smoothie is a refreshing tropical blend that combines the vibrant flavors of ripe kiwi and sweet papaya, creating a luscious and creamy texture. Enhanced with a splash of coconut milk and a hint of lime, this smoothie is a delightful escape to paradise in every sip, perfect for a sunny day or a healthy treat. Enjoy it chilled for a revitalizing boost!
747 Drink
The 747 Drink is a vibrant cocktail that combines the bold flavors of rum, pineapple juice, and a splash of grenadine for a tropical twist. This refreshing beverage is served over ice, garnished with a slice of pineapple or a cherry, making it the perfect choice for a summer gathering or a festive celebration. With its eye-catching layers and delightful taste, the 747 Drink promises to elevate any occasion.
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