Blue Moon Cocktail

Pro tips

• Chill your mixing glass and serving glass beforehand — cold glassware keeps the drink crisp and prevents early dilution.
• Use a 2:1 gin-to-liqueur ratio; the gin should dominate, with crème de Yvette adding depth, not sweetness.
• Stir, don't shake. Shaking aerates the drink and muddies the delicate floral notes; stirring maintains clarity and smoothness.
• Fresh ice matters: use large, slow-melting ice cubes to minimize dilution during the 15-20 second stir.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → Tanqueray or Beefeater (any London Dry style gin)
• Crème de Yvette → Crème de violette (more floral, slightly less herbal) or Chambord (use 1/2 oz; adds berry notes)

Storage & make-ahead

Pre-batch unmixed ingredients in a sealed bottle and refrigerate up to 3 days; stir fresh and serve chilled.

Equipment

mixing glass · bar spoon · jigger or shot glass · strainer · coupe or martini glass

Can I substitute the crème de Yvette?

Yes. Crème de violette or Chambord (in smaller amounts) work as substitutes, though they shift the flavor profile. Crème de Yvette is harder to find but adds distinctive floral notes unique to this drink.

What type of gin works best?

Any dry London Dry gin works well. Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin is called for in the recipe, but Tanqueray, Beefeater, or other standard dry gins are acceptable alternatives.

Should this cocktail be shaken or stirred?

Stir it with ice in a mixing glass for 15-20 seconds, then strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass. Stirring preserves the smoothness without excessive aeration.

What glassware is recommended?

Serve in a chilled coupe glass or martini glass. Pre-chill the glass with ice water before pouring.

Can I batch this cocktail ahead?

Mix the gin and crème de Yvette in a bottle and refrigerate up to 3 days. Stir with ice and strain into chilled glasses when ready to serve.