Champs Elysees Cocktail

Pro tips

• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice, not bottled, for brightness and proper balance against the Chartreuse's herbal notes.
• Dissolve powdered sugar into the lemon juice before shaking to ensure it integrates fully rather than settling at the bottom.
• Chill your coupe or cocktail glass with ice water before straining to maintain temperature in this spirit-forward drink.
• The dash of bitters should be added last for visual appeal and to prevent over-dilution when stirred in.

Substitutions

• Yellow Chartreuse → Green Chartreuse (drier, more herbaceous character)
• Cognac → VS Brandy (lighter, less complex but acceptable alternative)
• Powdered sugar → 1/4 oz simple syrup (easier to dissolve and measure)

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger · coupe glass or cocktail glass · bar strainer

Can I substitute Yellow Chartreuse in this cocktail?

Green Chartreuse works as a substitute but will be drier and more intensely herbal. Use the same 1/2 oz measure. Other herbal liqueurs like Benedictine are less ideal but possible.

Should this cocktail be shaken or stirred?

Shake vigorously with ice for 10-15 seconds to chill and properly combine the lemon juice with the spirits. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.

What type of bitters work best?

Angostura bitters are traditional and recommended. A single dash is sufficient; more will overpower the delicate balance of Cognac and Chartreuse.

Can this cocktail be made without powdered sugar?

Yes. If using fresh lemon juice without simple syrup, reduce the lemon to 1/4 oz or add 1/4 oz simple syrup instead of powdered sugar for easier mixing.