Green Chartreuse Vs. Yellow Chartreuse: The Main Differences

Green Chartreuse vs. Yellow Chartreuse: The Main Differ […]

Green Chartreuse vs. Yellow Chartreuse: The Main Differences

Green Chartreuse and Yellow Chartreuse are two of the most iconic liqueurs in the world. Both are made by Carthusian monks at the Grande Chartreuse monastery in France, and both are known for their complex herbal flavors. However, there are some key differences between the two liqueurs.

Base Spirit

Green Chartreuse is made with a sugar-beet liquor, while Yellow Chartreuse is made with a grape-based distillate. This difference in base spirit gives Yellow Chartreuse a sweeter and more mellow flavor profile than Green Chartreuse.

Alcohol Content

Green Chartreuse has a higher alcohol content than Yellow Chartreuse. Green Chartreuse is 55% ABV, while Yellow Chartreuse is 43% ABV.

Color

Green Chartreuse gets its green color from chlorophyll, while Yellow Chartreuse gets its yellow color from saffron.

Flavor Profile

Green Chartreuse has a more herbal and complex flavor profile than Yellow Chartreuse. Green Chartreuse has notes of mint, rosemary, citrus, and spices. Yellow Chartreuse has notes of honey, saffron, and anise.

Uses

Both Green Chartreuse and Yellow Chartreuse can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. Green Chartreuse is often used in cocktails that call for a strong herbal flavor, such as the Chartreuse Swizzle and the Last Word. Yellow Chartreuse is often used in cocktails that call for a sweeter and more mellow herbal flavor, such as the Yellow Chartreuse Fizz and the Vieux Carré.

Overall

Green Chartreuse and Yellow Chartreuse are both delicious liqueurs with their own unique flavor profiles. Green Chartreuse is more herbal and complex, while Yellow Chartreuse is sweeter and more mellow. Which liqueur you prefer will depend on your personal taste preferences.

Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between Green Chartreuse and Yellow Chartreuse:

I hope this helps!