Looking at buying a bottle of Chartreuse, or simply wondering what it is? Here at A Couple Cooks we stumbled upon this green specialty liqueur when we went to make the classic cocktail, the Last Word. But is it worth buying for the amateur home mixologist? The beautiful herbal flavor and unique color makes it worth the splurge, in our minds. Here’s more about it, what it tastes like, and how to use this beautiful French liquor.
What is Chartreuse?
Chartreuse is a French herbal liqueur: the only one in the world with a natural green color. It’s been made by French monks since 1737 using a secret recipe using a blend of 130 different plants and herbs. The name comes from the Grande Chartreuse monastery, located near Grenoble, France. Chartreuse is available in two varieties: Green Chartreuse is the most common. Yellow Chartreuse is more unique: it has a lower alcohol content than the green variety and is slightly sweeter.
What does Chartreuse taste like?
Chartreuse has a sweet, spicy, and smooth flavor, with a distinctly herbal finish. Tasting notes include mint, sage, gentian, apple, and vanilla. Are there any substitutes? Chartreuse is a unique liqueur that’s hard to replace. A similar liqueur is bright yellow Galliano, which you might have on hand if you’ve made a Harvey Wallbanger.
Why we like it
Chartreuse has a unique, herbal flavor and a beautifully green color you won’t find in any other liqueur. It’s the star of the classic Last Word, a must-try equal parts cocktail from the 1920’s.
How much does it cost?
Compared to other liquors, Chartreuse is fairly expensive. One 750 ml bottle costs around $60. Keep in mind that you’ll only use small amounts at a time, so the bottle will last you quite a while.
Most popular Chartreuse cocktails
While you can drink Chartreuse straight as a shot or an aperitif, it’s most commonly included in cocktails.
Don’t want to follow a recipe? Mix 1 ounce with 4 times the champagne, like a Kir Royale. Or try it with 3 times the soda water, like a spritzer.Want a cocktail? Try it in one of these popular Chartreuse cocktails:
Other cocktails
This liquor is also included in the Fernet Sour Cocktail. Invented in: 1920’s (or before) Invented in: 1890’s Invented in: 2011
More liquor guides
Wondering what orgeat is? Or Aperol or St Germain? What are the Sazerac ingredients, or the best reposado tequila? We’ve got you! Here are a few more guides to liquor: 4 from 1 review
Guide to Absinthe This formerly banned liquor is now in good graces. Guide to Grenadine It’s mistaken as cherry, but this bright syrup has a secret. Quick Guide to Orgeat All you need to know about this almond syrup.Guide to Grand Marnier This top shelf orange liqueur is absolutely worth writing home about.
