The Flying Dutchman: A High-Flying Herbal Masterpiece
If you’re a fan of the Last Word or the Vieux Carré, it’s time to add the Flying Dutchman to your repertoire. Named after the legendary ghost ship destined to sail the oceans forever, this cocktail is anything but fleeting. It is a rich, honeyed and deeply botanical drink that strikes a perfect balance between sharp citrus and ancient herbal secrets.
The Spirit of the Netherlands
Traditionally, this drink calls for Genever, the malty, funky Dutch predecessor to modern gin. However, using a London Dry Gin creates a crisper, more pine-forward profile that allows the liqueurs to truly sing. Whether you go traditional or modern, this is a cocktail for those who appreciate “big” flavors.
The Flavor Profile: A Botanical Tug-of-War
What makes the Flying Dutchman so intriguing is the pairing of Yellow Chartreuse and Bénédictine.
- Yellow Chartreuse brings notes of saffron, honey and anise.
- Bénédictine adds a weightier, spicy sweetness with hints of clove and orange peel.
- Lemon Juice acts as the “anchor,” providing the necessary acidity to cut through the richness of the liqueurs.
The result? A silky, golden cocktail that starts bright and citrusy but finishes with a complex, lingering herbal warmth.
Ingredients for the Flying Dutchman
- 1.5 oz Gin (Genever for depth, London Dry for a crisp finish)
- 3/4 oz Yellow Chartreuse
- 3/4 oz Bénédictine
- 3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- Lemon twist for garnish
How to make the Flying Dutchman
- Chill your coupe: A cold glass is non-negotiable for a drink served “up.”
- Shake it up: Combine all ingredients in a shaker filled with plenty of ice.
- The Double Strain: Shake vigorously for 15 seconds. Double strain through a fine-mesh sieve into your chilled coupe to ensure no ice shards interrupt that silky texture.
- Garnish: Express a lemon twist over the surface and drop it in.
Pro tips
- The Gin Choice: If you find the drink a bit too sweet, lean into a high-proof Navy Strength gin to provide more “bite.”
- Freshness is King: With 3/4 oz. of lemon, the quality of your citrus will make or break the drink. Always use freshly squeezed juice!
- Texture: Because of the sugar content in the two liqueurs, this drink has a beautiful “weight” to it. Shaking hard ensures you get that lovely frothy top right after the pour.
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