For Love of Chartreuse

Without a doubt my favorite drink is Chartreuse. For some it is an acquired taste. I loved it from the very first sip.

Chartreuse is an herbal based liqueur distilled from a 400 year old recipe by the Chartreuse monks in France. The original recipe, known only to 3 living monks at any one time, was originally referred to as the Elixer of Life. I have to say I always feel better after a few sips. The liqueur is distilled from 130 alpine herbs, who knew there were so many.

Chartreuse comes in several varieties. The traditional is referred to as Green Chartreuse. It has an anise-like nose to it.  It is slightly fruity and definitely herbaly, although you would be hard pressed to identify any specific herbs. Green Chartreuse  is 110 proof and is best served cold, even on the rocks. Although I prefer just a cold glass so the ice doesn’t dilute the spirit. This is the bottle you will most likely find in your neighborhood liquor store, although they probably won’t have more than a bottle or two on the shelf.

Yellow Chartreuse is a little sweeter and not as strong at about 80 proof. This is very hard to find in restaurants, so if they have it, I almost always get a glass. It also isn’t carried  typically in liquor stores so you may need a special order.

The last variety is Chartreuse V.E.P.(Vieillissement Exceptionnellement Prolongé). This is essentially the same Chartreuse except it has been aged. Quantities are limited and bottles numbered but this is exceptionally smooth and flavorful. They make Green and Yellow, VEP, although I’ve never had the latter.  The V.E.P. is also most likely served in finer French restaurants, at least that has been my experience.

I always try to introduce Chartreuse to dinner guests and can only hope that the next time you’re out and feeling adventurous that you’ll give it a try yourself.