The original Bijou (French word for “jewel”) cocktail dates back to the 1890s and was equal parts gin, sweet vermouth and Chartreuse. The modern version adds more gin, less Chartreuse and some orange bitters. I couldn’t find Chartreuse at my regular liquor store but I found Faccia Brutto Centerbe which I have read was a very good substitute so that is what I went with for my version.
This cocktail is complex. So many layers that come in waves. I highly recommend this one.
Hat tip to Liquor.com for the recipe.
Ingredients for a Bijou Cocktail
- 1 1/2 ounces gin
- 1 ounce sweet vermouth
- 3/4 ounce green Chartreuse or Faccia Brutto Centerbe
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- 1 maraschino cherry for garnish
How to make a Bijou Cocktail
- In a cocktail mixing glass, add ice, gin, sweet vermouth, Faccia Brutto Centerbe and bitters. Mix for 20-30 seconds until combined and well chilled.
- Strain into a coupe or Nick and Nora glass. Garnish with a Luxardo maraschino cherry.
- Enjoy!
one foodie 