Champs Elysees Cocktail

Pro tips

• Use fresh-squeezed lemon juice for brightness; bottled juice dulls the herbal-citrus balance.
• Chill your coupe glass before serving to keep the cocktail cold longer.
• Add the bitters last after shaking to preserve its aromatic oils and prevent over-dilution.
• Shake for 10-12 seconds with ice to achieve proper dilution without over-aeration.

Substitutions

• Yellow Chartreuse → Green Chartreuse (more assertive, herbaceous)
• Cognac → Armagnac (earthier, slightly drier alternative)
• Powdered sugar → Simple syrup at 1/2 tsp (smoother dissolution)

Equipment

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

Can I substitute Yellow Chartreuse in this cocktail?

Green Chartreuse works as a substitute, though it's more intense and herbaceous. Benedictine or dry vermouth offer lighter alternatives but shift the flavor profile.

Should the Champs Elysees be shaken or stirred?

Shake vigorously with ice to chill and aerate the cocktail, then strain into a coupe or cocktail glass.

What type of Cognac is best for this drink?

A VS (Very Special) or VSOP Cognac works well; avoid premium XO expressions since their complexity can be overshadowed by the Chartreuse.

How do I measure 1/4 juice of a lemon?

Juice one fresh lemon fully, then measure 1/4 of that total amount, roughly 0.25 oz or about half a teaspoon.

Can I make this cocktail without powdered sugar?

Simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water) substitutes at 1/2 teaspoon, or use 1/4 teaspoon regular granulated sugar dissolved in the lemon juice.