Gin and Chartreuse, two classic spirits that are often overlooked, but when combined, create a cocktail that is both complex and refreshing.
Gin, known for its botanicals, and Chartreuse, a French liqueur made from 130 herbs and flowers, create a unique flavor profile that is perfect for those looking for something different.
The history of these two spirits is as rich as their flavors. Gin, originally created in the Netherlands, was used for medicinal purposes before it became a popular drink.
Chartreuse, on the other hand, was created by Carthusian monks in the French Alps in the 18th century. The recipe was kept a secret for centuries and is still a closely guarded secret to this day.
When combined, these two spirits create a cocktail like no other. The herbal and floral notes of Chartreuse complement the botanicals of gin, creating a drink that is both sweet and savory.
The complexity of the flavors makes it perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening or enjoying as an after-dinner drink.
As a bartender, I have experimented with many different gin and Chartreuse cocktail recipes, and in this blog post, I will be sharing some of my favorites.
From classic cocktails like the Last Word to more modern twists like the Green Ghost, these recipes are sure to impress even the most discerning cocktail connoisseur. So sit back, relax, and get ready to explore the world of gin and Chartreuse cocktails.
1. Gin and Chartreuse
The Gin and Chartreuse is a unique and flavorful cocktail made with yellow Chartreuse, a pungent and herbal liqueur made by Carthusian Monks in France since 1737. The yellow variety is sweeter and milder than the green, making it a great choice for those who are hesitant about too much herbal flavor.
The cocktail is complemented by a nice neutral gin, making it the perfect balance of intense herbal flavors. Give it a try if you're looking for a complex and conversation-starting cocktail.
2. Chamomelia
One of the best Gin Chartreuse Cocktail recipes out there is the Chamomelia. This cocktail features a delicate gin paired with the mild and sweet yellow Chartreuse. Muddled fresh peaches, freshly squeezed lemon, and a chamomile syrup are added to create a refreshing and herbaceous drink.
The combination of flavors is perfectly balanced, making it a great choice for those who are new to the Chartreuse liqueur. If you're looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to try, the Chamomelia is definitely worth a taste.
3. Chartreuse and Gin Cocktail
The Chartreuse and Gin Cocktail is a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast. Made with the complex and herbaceous Chartreuse liquor, this cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy bold and unique flavors. The gin adds a nice balance to the drink, while the other ingredients bring a touch of sweetness and tartness.
The green color of the cocktail makes it a great option for festive occasions, and the complexity of flavors makes it a great introduction to cocktails beyond the traditional gin and juice. If you're looking to expand your cocktail repertoire, this Chartreuse and Gin Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
4. Yellowjacket
The Yellowjacket is a delicious twist on the classic Bees Knees cocktail. This gin-based cocktail is sweetened with honey syrup and infused with the herbal intensity of Yellow Chartreuse liqueur. The result is a burst of floral and honey flavors that are perfectly balanced with the gin.
The Yellowjacket is a great cocktail for those who love the classic Bees Knees but want to try something new and exciting. The Yellow Chartreuse adds a unique and intriguing flavor profile that will leave you wanting more. If you're a fan of gin cocktails, this is definitely one to try.
5. Classic Bijou Cocktail
The Classic Bijou Cocktail is a gin chartreuse cocktail named after the colors of jewels represented by its three liquors. It features equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and chartreuse, creating a crisp and herbaceous flavor with a unique herbal undertone.
Invented in the 1890s, it fell out of style after Prohibition but was rediscovered in the 1980s. This three-ingredient drink takes only five minutes to make and is garnished with a lemon peel and Luxardo cherry. It's a perfect choice for a special occasion or a night in with friends.
6. Basil Cocktail & Spring Feeling Cocktail
The Basil Cocktail and Spring Feeling Cocktail are two of the best Gin Chartreuse Cocktails out there. The Basil Cocktail is a modern take on the classic Spring Feeling, featuring a zesty and herbaceous blend of gin, basil, and Green Chartreuse. The vibrant and semi-dry cocktail is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds, perfect for those looking for a refreshing and sophisticated drink.
The Spring Feeling Cocktail, on the other hand, is a classic Green Chartreuse cocktail that pairs the liqueur with citrus and gin. The result is a smooth and earthy cocktail with a soft juniper hit. Both cocktails are great entry-level Green Chartreuse cocktails and are perfect for those looking to explore the unique and versatile liqueur.
7. Green Ghost Cocktail
The Green Ghost Cocktail is a classic cocktail that has been around since the 1930s. It is an excellent example of how Green Chartreuse can be used to create a unique herbal flavor in cocktails. The cocktail is made with gin, Green Chartreuse liquor, and fresh lime juice, and it is perfect for those who want to try something different.
The Green Ghost Cocktail is a high-end cocktail that is simple to make, and it is not overly sweet, making it perfect for serving before or after dinner. The cocktail is also a great choice for Halloween parties due to its name and its green color. If you are looking for a unique cocktail to serve at your next party, the Green Ghost Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
8. The Verdant Lady
"The Verdant Lady" is a refreshing and herbaceous gin and green chartreuse cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of gin and green chartreuse creates a complex and layered flavor profile that is balanced out by the tartness of lime and the coolness of mint.
The green chartreuse, made with 130 herbs by French monks, adds a natural green color and a unique herbal punch to the cocktail. This cocktail is best enjoyed in a chilled cocktail glass, such as a coupe, to fully appreciate its flavors. If you're looking for a cocktail that is both easy to make and impressive to serve, "The Verdant Lady" is definitely worth a try.
9. Verdant Lady
The Verdant Lady is a complex and refreshing cocktail that combines the botanical flavors of gin with the bittersweet notes of green chartreuse liqueur. The addition of fresh mint and lime juice adds a refreshing twist to this classic cocktail, making it perfect for any weather.
The cocktail has a unique flavor profile that is sure to impress gin lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike. If you're looking for a sophisticated and refreshing drink, the Verdant Lady is definitely worth a try.
10. The Last Word
"The Last Word" is a classic cocktail that has regained popularity in recent years, thanks to the resurgence of speakeasy bars. This gin-based cocktail is made with equal parts gin, Chartreuse, Luxardo, and lime juice.
The Chartreuse liqueur, distilled by Carthusian Monks of France, gives the drink a fragrantly herbaceous and slightly sour taste, while the Luxardo adds a bright sweetness that is quite refreshing. The Last Word Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a good gin cocktail with a unique twist. So, if you're looking for a new gin chartreuse cocktail recipe to try, make sure to add "The Last Word" to your list.
11. First Frost
"First Frost" is a unique and complex cocktail that combines white rum, green Chartreuse, and homemade apple cinnamon syrup. The green Chartreuse adds layers of flavor including spice, vanilla, and mint, while the dry white vermouth balances out the heavier flavors of the rum and liqueur.
Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a bright, citrusy kick, while the homemade apple cinnamon syrup adds a touch of sweetness and warmth. The cocktail is garnished with a beautiful apple rose, adding a touch of elegance to this already impressive drink.
12. The Last Word Cocktail
"The Last Word Cocktail" is a classic cocktail that combines gin, Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice. The herbaceous and bold flavors of Chartreuse make this cocktail a standout among other gin cocktails. The equal parts of each ingredient create a perfectly balanced drink that is both refreshing and complex.
Served in a martini glass or champagne coup with a lime twist, "The Last Word Cocktail" is a must-try for any gin lover looking for a unique and delicious cocktail. Be sure to add it to your list of cocktails to try this summer!
13. The Apropos Cocktail
The Apropos Cocktail is a complex and flavorful gin-based drink that incorporates Chartreuse and Aperol. The yellow Chartreuse adds a plethora of herbal flavors, while the Aperol contributes bitterness and citrus notes. The lime is a subtle addition that rounds out the flavors. For those who prefer even more herbal notes, the recipe can be adjusted to include green Chartreuse instead.
The gin used in the cocktail is not as important since the other flavors are so bold. This is a great opportunity to use up a less-favored bottle of gin and treat yourself to a new one. The Apropos Cocktail is a potent drink that should be enjoyed ice-cold. It's a unique and intriguing cocktail that is sure to impress those who love bold and complex flavors.
14. The Lumiere
The Lumiere is a classic cocktail that combines gin, St. Germain, green chartreuse, and fresh lime juice. Developed in Brooklyn, New York, this cocktail has a complex flavor profile that is sweet and herbal with a nice warming mouthfeel. The fresh lime juice balances the sweetness of the St. Germain and brings a bright tartness that teases the tongue.
The green chartreuse and fresh lime give the drink a lovely luminescent appearance, which is where the drink gets its name. While the Lumiere is full of flavor, it is almost all spirits, making it a strong cocktail that should be served without ice. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a bold and complex drink that's not too sweet.
15. The Green Ghost
"The Green Ghost" is a classic cocktail from the 1930s that is perfect for Halloween or any time of year. This cocktail is a simple yet sophisticated blend of gin, Green Chartreuse, and lime juice. It is a refreshing change from overly sweet cocktails and complicated craft cocktails. The pale green color from the herbal liqueur and lime juice adds a mystical quality to this mysterious cocktail.
The Green Ghost is a great way to explore the intricacies of various gin flavor profiles. The herbal flavor of Green Chartreuse is beautifully balanced with the juniper and botanicals of the gin, making it a delicious sipper. The cocktail is a must-try for gin lovers and those looking to try something new.
16. The Lumiere Light
If you're a fan of gin cocktails and looking for something unique, The Lumiere Light is definitely worth trying. This cocktail is a lighter version of the Lumiere, with a milder taste of herbal flavors due to the use of yellow Chartreuse instead of the stronger green Chartreuse.
The combination of gin, elderflower liqueur, and fresh lime creates a deliciously unusual mix of flavors that is sure to impress. The recipe is flexible, allowing for adjustments to the Chartreuse and lime to suit individual tastes. So, if you're feeling adventurous, give The Lumiere Light a try and experience the magic of this gin Chartreuse cocktail.
