OUR FAVOURITE CHATREUSE & VERMOUTH COCKTAIL

 

AND THE LENGEND OF THE CHARTREUSE MONKS

The Bijou Cocktail, a True Gem in the World of Mixology

A dimly lit speakeasy, the clink of glasses, a whisper of jazz in the background, and the allure of a drink that's as captivating as a rare jewel. That's the essence of the Bijou cocktail, a sumptuous blend of spirits that has tantalized taste buds since the 19th century. This libation isn't just a drink; it's a time capsule, a concoction that transports you back to an era of glamour and mystery. But what makes the Bijou so special? Is it the harmonious blend of Chartreuse, vermouth, and gin? Or is it the cocktail's rich history that adds to its charm?

Chartreuse Cocktails, a Historical Elixir

Meaning 'jewel' in French, the Bijou cocktail was first mixed in the late 1800s, becoming a drink that was set to epitomize the Gilded Age, a time of both opulence and grandeur. It’s creator, Harry Johnson named it 'Bijou' as he saw a gem in each of it’s key three ingredients, with gin representing diamonds for its clarity; the red hue of sweet vermouth symbolizing rubies and Chartreuse playing the role of emeralds with its vibrant green color.

The Bijou is a drink of balance and sophistication. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role, just like the precious stones they represent. The gin provides a crisp, botanical base, the Chartreuse adds herbal complexity and a touch of sweetness, while the vermouth rounds it out with a subtle, spiced undertone.

The Bijou, like many classic cocktails, faded into obscurity during the Prohibition era, and it wasn't until the craft cocktail revival of the 21st century that this gem was rediscovered and polished to shine once more in cocktail bars around the world.

 

400 Years of Chartreuse

Chartreuse liqueur dates back to the early 1600s, where but for a short period of exile, it has been crafted by Carthusian monks in the Chartreuse Mountains near Grenoble.

Originating from an ancient manuscript gifted to them in 1605, the monks have perfected this unique elixir, which contains a secret blend of over 130 herbs, plants, and flowers. The production process remains a closely guarded secret, known only to a few monks, ensuring the continuity of its distinctive flavor and character. With its vivid green or yellow hue, Chartreuse remains a testament to monastic herbal expertise and tradition.

Unlike the ancient Chartreuse, 9diDANTE’s innovative spirit weaves Dante's epic into a modern, bold Piedmontese Vermouth. Explore its history here.

 

Crafting the Bijou, a Recipe for Elegance

Making a Bijou is like creating a small piece of art; requiring precision, balance, and a touch of flair. But don’t despair, you can master it too with these few easy steps. :

Bijou Cocktail Recipe

  • Ingredients:

  • Instructions:

    1. In a mixing glass, combine gin, Green Chartreuse, 9diDANTE Inferno sweet vermouth, and orange bitters.

    2. Fill the glass with ice and stir well until chilled.

    3. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.

    4. Garnish with a lemon twist or a cherry.

    5. Serve and enjoy

 

A delicious Bijou Cocktail at the Wondeful “14 de la Rosa” Bar in Barcelona

 

The Bijou: A Modern Twist on a Classic

While the traditional recipe remains popular, many love to put their spin on classics, with some variations playing with different styles of gin or vermouth to adjust the flavor profile, or adding a dash of absinthe for an extra layer of complexity. The key to a great Bijou, however, remains in respecting the balance of its ingredients, just like in a well-crafted sophisticated piece of jewelry.

The Bijou and You, a Sip of History

As you savor a Bijou, you're not just drinking a cocktail; you're imbibing history. From its creation in the 19th century to its resurgence in the modern cocktail scene, the Bijou has been a silent witness to centuries of change. It's a drink that tells a story of elegance, craftsmanship, and the enduring appeal of classic cocktails.

For those who are intrigued by the fusion of history and mixology, why not explore more? Head over to 9diDANTE's cocktail section for a journey through time and taste. Discover cocktails that blend tradition with innovation, and find out how 9diDANTE’s unique vermouths can add an Italian twist to your favorite classic recipes. The world of cocktails is a treasure trove of flavors and stories, and 9diDANTE invites you to be part of this tantalizing exploration. Cheers to history, cheers to the Bijou, and cheers to the endless possibilities in a glass!

 
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