Bijou Cocktail

Pro tips

• Use a 1:1:1 ratio precisely—0.75 oz each of gin, chartreuse, and vermouth—to maintain the balance that defines this cocktail.
• Stir for 10-15 seconds over large ice cubes to chill and dilute evenly without over-diluting.
• Add the orange bitters last as a single dash to preserve its bright citrus accent without overpowering the herbal notes.
• Pre-chill your coupe glass with ice water before serving to keep the drink colder longer.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → any London Dry gin (Tanqueray, Bols, Beefeater work well)
• Green Chartreuse → Yellow Chartreuse (creates a sweeter, spicier variation)
• Sweet Vermouth → Dry Vermouth (shifts the balance toward herbals; not traditional but possible)

Equipment

cocktail shaker or mixing glass · barspoon · coupe or cocktail glass · jigger

What does a Bijou cocktail taste like?

The Bijou balances herbal notes from green chartreuse and vermouth against the botanicals of gin, finished with a subtle orange bitters aroma. It's dry, complex, and slightly sweet.

Can I substitute the green chartreuse in a Bijou?

Green chartreuse is essential to the Bijou's identity, but yellow chartreuse creates a sweeter variation. Avoid other substitutes as they alter the balance significantly.

Should a Bijou be shaken or stirred?

The Bijou is traditionally stirred with ice and strained into a coupe or cocktail glass, keeping it silky and properly chilled without diluting the delicate balance.

What glassware should I use?

Serve in a chilled coupe (champagne saucer) or standard cocktail glass. Pre-chill the glass with ice water before straining the drink.