Chartreuse is a liquer in the 'aromatic' family and contains 130 herbs and spices. Yes, that's 130! Created by
Carthusian monks in 16th century France, chartreuse is still made under the direction of the monastery. It can be aged in oak up to 12 years and comes in two colors: green, 55% alcohol and yellow, 43% alcohol.
We recently made a cocktail called
Pousse Cafe which uses both types of chartreuse as well as 5 other liquers, all placed in the glass a layer at a time. In fact, each liquer has a different weight so when added properly to the glass, you end up with a 7-layered drink that, while strong, was beautiful to behold.
Chartreuse frequently accompanies cocktails that include gin, but not always. Ever hear of these?
- Bijou
- Green Lizard
- Lollipop
- Tailspin
- Cloister
- Golden Slipper
- Widow's Kiss
- Yellow Parrot
This historical beverage is hardly the only herbal-extract liquer. You may have heard of Benedictine, Centerbe, Fiore D'Alpi, Galliano, Jagermeister and Kummel which are all used today to add complex flavor and color to our cocktails. Try one this holiday season!
Note: for more information and to learn how to make the cocktails above, I recommend The Ultimate A-to-Z Bar Guide, Broadway Publishers from which most of the above information was taken.
