The Yellow Parrot is a silky herbal-fruit cocktail that layers anisette, yellow chartreuse, and apricot brandy in equal parts. It's prized for its balanced complexity and aromatic finish.
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Instructions
1
Shake with ice and strain into cocktail glass.
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Tips & Notes
Pro tips
Use equal parts (0.75 oz each) for proper balance; uneven pours will throw off the herbal-fruit harmony.
Chill your glass before serving to keep the drink smooth and prevent the spirits from warming too quickly.
If serving over ice, use one large cube or several larger pieces to minimize dilution.
Pour slowly and deliberately—the layering of three different liqueurs creates subtle visual depth.
Substitutions
Old Mr. Boston Anisette → Pastis or Pernod (more herbaceous, adjust sweetness to taste)
Yellow Chartreuse → (no direct substitute; green chartreuse will alter flavor significantly)
Old Mr. Boston Apricot Brandy → Apricot liqueur or peach schnapps (lighter body, sweeter)
Storage & make-ahead
Store unopened bottles at room temperature in a cool, dark cabinet. Once mixed, the cocktail is best served immediately; batched versions keep for several weeks in a sealed bottle.
Equipment
cocktail glass · jigger (0.75 oz measure)
Common Questions
Can I make a Yellow Parrot without chartreuse?
Chartreuse is a signature ingredient and difficult to replace; however, you could try a lighter herbal liqueur like Benedictine, though the flavor profile will shift significantly.
Should the Yellow Parrot be served neat, on the rocks, or shaken?
Traditionally served as an equal-parts liqueur drink, most commonly served neat or over ice in a cocktail glass. Some bartenders shake with ice and strain.
What's the difference between yellow and green chartreuse?
Yellow chartreuse is sweeter and lighter with honey and vanilla notes; green is herbal, spicy, and more intense. Yellow is correct for this recipe.
Can I batch this cocktail ahead?
Yes—mix the three spirits in a bottle and store at room temperature. Serve over ice or neat per glass when ready.
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