Bijou
The Bijou is a classic cocktail that beautifully balances the herbal notes of gin with the rich sweetness of green Chartreuse and the bittersweet depth of sweet vermouth. Its name, meaning "jewel" in French, reflects the vibrant green hue of the drink, often garnished with a twist of lemon or an orange peel to enhance its aromatic profile. This elegant concoction offers a sophisticated taste experience that has captivated cocktail enthusiasts since the late 19th century.
Ingredients
- 1 dashOrange Bitters
- 1 ozGreen Chartreuse
- 1 ozGin
- 1 ozSweet Vermouth
Pairs Well With
- Herbed cheese
- Green olives
- Herb-roasted chicken
- Bitter greens salad
Preparation
Stir in mixing glass with ice and strain
Best Enjoyed
Pro Tips
Use equal parts of all three spirits to create perfect balance between the botanical, herbal, and sweet notes
Stir with ice for proper dilution and integration without over-chilling
Serve in a chilled coupe glass and garnish with a cherry for authentic presentation
History & Origins
The Bijou is a classic cocktail from the golden age of bartending that showcases three distinct herbal spirits in perfect balance, like three precious gems. The drink's name (French for 'jewel') reflects its sophisticated composition and beautiful presentation.
Variations
Modern Bijou
Reduces sweet vermouth and increases green chartreuse for a more herbal, spirit-forward interpretation
Light Bijou
Uses half the normal spirit quantities and adds fresh citrus juice for a lighter, more refreshing variant
Chartreuse-Forward
Incorporates dry vermouth instead of sweet vermouth for a drier, more sophisticated profile
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