Abstract: The invention relates to an alumina based, phosphate bondable, dry refractory mix composition exhibiting an extended shelf life of up to eighteen months and longer. The mixture has the following preferred composition on a weight percentage basis: 40-70% sized tabular alumina, 15-35% calcined alumina, 2-10% hydrated alumina, 1-10% calcium aluminate cement and an acid ingredient such as 3 to 15 weight percent of an 115 percent concentration of polyphosphoric acid. The mix is prepared by a method which comprises the steps of formulating dry ingredients into a mixer, mixing the dry ingredients to a homogenous state, then adding a liquid acid ingredient to the mixture of dry ingredients, and subjecting the dry and acid ingredient mix to a high intensity mixing action for a predetermined period of time. The product is substantially dry to the touch.