Bijou
A sophisticated pre-Prohibition classic named after the French word for 'jewel.' This cocktail is famous for the visual representation of its three main ingredients, said to represent diamonds (gin), rubies (sweet vermouth), and emeralds (Green Chartreuse). It delivers a complex, herbal, and full-bodied flavor profile perfect for lovers of strong, stirred drinks.
What it tastes like
The aroma is dominated by piney juniper and intense herbal notes of anise and menthol from the Chartreuse. On the palate, the texture is viscous and silky, delivering a heavy botanical sweetness balanced by sharp medicinal bitterness. The finish is long and warming, leaving a distinct resinous and orange-peel aftertaste.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Gin1 oz
- Sweet Vermouth1 oz
- Green Chartreuse1 oz
- Orange Bitters1 dash
Preparation
- 1
Chill a Coupe glass in the freezer.
- 2
Combine the gin, sweet vermouth, Green Chartreuse, and orange bitters in a mixing glass.
- 3
Fill the mixing glass two-thirds full with fresh ice.
- 4
Stir smoothly for about 30 seconds to chill and properly dilute the cocktail.
- 5
Strain the mixture into the chilled glass.
- 6
Express the oils of a lemon twist over the drink and drop it in, or garnish with a cherry.
Substitutions
- Green ChartreuseGenepy — This liqueur is lighter and less alcoholic, resulting in a softer herbal profile.
- GinOld Tom Gin — This adds a malty sweetness that rounds out the sharp herbal edges of the drink.
- Sweet VermouthPunt e Mes — This increases the bitterness and adds a dark, cocoa-like depth to the cocktail.
- Orange BittersGrapefruit Bitters — This shifts the citrus profile to a sharper, more pithy acidity.
Variations
Tipperary
Replace the gin with Irish whiskey to create a richer, grain-forward profile while maintaining the herbal backbone.
Amber Bijou
Use Yellow Chartreuse instead of Green for a milder, honeyed profile with less alcoholic heat.