Champs Elysees Cocktail

Pro tips

• Fresh lemon juice is essential—use juice squeezed immediately before mixing, not bottled, for proper balance and brightness.
• Chill your glass beforehand by filling it with ice while you prepare the cocktail, then discard the ice before straining.
• Powdered sugar dissolves faster than granulated in cold liquid; stir gently in the shaker to ensure it fully dissolves before adding ice.
• Keep all ingredients cold and shake with plenty of ice to achieve proper dilution and temperature for a smooth finish.

Substitutions

• Yellow chartreuse → green chartreuse (more herbal; reduce to 3/8 oz)
• Brandy → cognac or armagnac (richer, more complex flavor)
• Powdered sugar → simple syrup 1/2 tsp (easier integration, slightly sweeter)

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger · strainer · coupe or cocktail glass

Can I substitute yellow chartreuse in this cocktail?

Green chartreuse works as a substitute but will be more herbaceous and intense. Use the same measure or reduce slightly to taste.

What type of brandy works best for Champs Elysees?

A quality cognac or armagnac is traditional, but any smooth brandy at least 80 proof will work well.

Should this cocktail be shaken or stirred?

Shake vigorously with ice for 10–15 seconds to properly chill and combine the ingredients, then strain into a coupe or cocktail glass.

What garnish pairs with this cocktail?

A lemon twist or expressed lemon peel complements the citrus and herbal notes without overwhelming the drink.