Tasting Notes

Le Petite Dragon is a bright, herbaceous, and lightly floral cocktail with a delicate balance between earthy, sweet, and citrus notes. The hoja santa–infused tequila brings a subtle anise-like and peppery aroma, giving depth to the spirit without overpowering it. Yellow Chartreuse adds a gentle herbal sweetness with hints of honey, while the prickly pear soda introduces natural fruitiness and a soft tang. The carbonation lifts the flavors, making the drink feel crisp and refreshing. Finished with an orange twist and basil flower, the garnish adds fresh aroma and a touch of elegance to both the nose and presentation.

Equipment and Glassware

For preparation, you’ll need a highball glass to serve the cocktail. A jigger ensures precise measurement of the tequila and Chartreuse, while a bar spoon helps mix the ingredients evenly once the soda is added. If making the infusions, you’ll require a sous vide setup or a container for maceration at room temperature. For the prickly pear soda, you’ll need a juicer, measuring tools, a whisk for mixing in agave syrup, and a carbonation siphon or CO₂ tank. A vegetable peeler will help prepare the orange twist garnish, while kitchen shears can be used for trimming the basil flower.

Ingredients

For the cocktail:

• 45 ml Casa Dragones Blanco infused with hoja santa
• 15 ml yellow Chartreuse
• Prickly pear soda (to top)
• Garnish: Orange twist and basil flower

For hoja santa infusion:

• 500 ml Casa Dragones Blanco
• 1 hoja santa leaf

For prickly pear soda:

• 500 ml prickly pear juice
• 250 ml water
• Agave syrup (to taste)
• Juice of 1 yellow lemon

Instructions

Prepare hoja santa–infused tequila:

• Add hoja santa leaf to 500 ml of Casa Dragones Blanco.
• Sous vide at 55°C for 30 minutes, or macerate at room temperature for 3–4 hours. Strain and store.

Make prickly pear soda:

• Combine prickly pear juice with water.
• Sweeten with agave syrup to taste.
• Add lemon juice, carbonate with a siphon or CO₂ tank, and chill.

Assemble the cocktail:

• Fill a highball glass with ice.
• Pour in 45 ml hoja santa–infused tequila and 15 ml yellow Chartreuse.
• Top with prickly pear soda.
• Stir gently to mix.
• Garnish with an orange twist and a basil flower.

Pro Tips

• Infuse tequila gently to avoid overpowering bitterness
• Use fresh prickly pears for brighter flavor in the soda
• Adjust agave syrup to match your preferred sweetness
• Keep soda chilled to retain carbonation longer
• Express orange twist over the drink to release oils
• Select a fresh basil flower for maximum aroma
• Avoid over-stirring to preserve bubbles
• Pre-chill highball glass for better temperature retention
• Fine strain prickly pear juice to remove pulp before carbonating
• Taste soda before assembling to ensure balance between sweet and tart

When to Serve

Le Petite Dragon is ideal for summer afternoons, garden parties, and cocktail hours where guests appreciate a light yet complex drink. Its herbal and citrus-forward profile pairs well with fresh seafood, light salads, or grilled vegetables, making it a versatile pre-dinner option. The bright color and refined garnishes make it suitable for special occasions, while its refreshing nature ensures it remains approachable. It’s also a great choice for events where presentation matters, as the combination of carbonation, vibrant pink soda, and delicate garnishes creates an eye-catching beverage.

Similar Cocktails

• Violet Vodka Lemonade
• Peach Bourbon Smash
• Peach Basil Gin and Tonic
• Cantaloupe Mojito
• Dr Pepper Margarita

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Le Petite Dragon

Held recently at La Casa Dragones in San Miguel de Allende, Casa Dragones’ annual Jamming Sessions competition challenged bartenders to create cocktails using local ingredients, celebrating the same soil where agave and Mexican produce thrive. This year, eight top bartenders competed, with judging by industry leaders like José Luis León (Licorería Limantour, #9 on North America’s 2025 Best Bars) and Fabiola Padilla (Bekeb, #49 on the 2025 World’s Best Bars). Alfredo Pineda Fernández of Waldorf Astoria Pedregal in Cabo San Lucas took the top prize with two standout cocktails featuring native flavors, “Le Petite Dragon” was one of his winning creations.

Course Drinks

Cuisine Mexican

Keyword brunch cocktails, Chartreuse Cocktails, summer cocktails, tequila cocktails

Prep Time 4 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Author Casa Dragones

Equipment

• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger
• Bar Spoon
• Highball Glass

Ingredients

For the cocktail:

• 45 ml Casa Dragones Blanco infused with hoja santa
• 15 ml yellow Chartreuse
• Prickly pear soda to top
• Garnish: Orange twist and basil flower

For hoja santa infusion:

• 500 ml Casa Dragones Blanco
• 1 hoja santa leaf

For prickly pear soda:

• 500 ml prickly pear juice
• 250 ml water
• Agave syrup to taste
• Juice of 1 yellow lemon

Instructions

Prepare hoja santa–infused tequila:

• Add hoja santa leaf to 500 ml of Casa Dragones Blanco.
• Sous vide at 55°C for 30 minutes, or macerate at room temperature for 3–4 hours. Strain and store.

Make prickly pear soda:

• Combine prickly pear juice with water.
• Sweeten with agave syrup to taste.
• Add lemon juice, carbonate with a siphon or CO₂ tank, and chill.

Assemble the cocktail:

• Fill a highball glass with ice.
• Pour in 45 ml hoja santa–infused tequila and 15 ml yellow Chartreuse.
• Top with prickly pear soda.
• Stir gently to mix.
• Garnish with an orange twist and a basil flower.

Notes

Pro Tips

• If you can’t find hoja santa, fresh tarragon or anise hyssop can provide similar herbal notes.
• Chill the soda before topping to keep carbonation longer.
• Use clear ice cubes for a more refined presentation.

Tasting Notes

This Green Chartreuse Tonic drink is bright, herbaceous, and crisp. Green Chartreuse brings bold herbal flavors with a touch of spice and sweetness. Tonic water adds a dry, fizzy finish that lightens things up without covering the complex flavors of the liqueur. The lime wedge adds a subtle citrus kick that sharpens the edge. The overall feel is refreshing, but with some depth and character. It’s an easy two-ingredient drink with a flavor that’s anything but plain. Great for sipping slowly and appreciating the botanicals.

Equipment and Glassware

This drink is simple to make and doesn’t need much gear. You’ll want a jigger for measuring and a bar spoon if you’d like to give it a quick stir. A highball or Collins glass works best here, giving room for ice and plenty of tonic. Use a citrus knife or wedge cutter for a clean lime garnish. No shaker or strainer needed just build it right in the glass.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Green Chartreuse
• Tonic water, to top
• Lime wedge, for garnish

Instructions

• Fill a highball glass with ice.
• Pour in the Green Chartreuse.
• Top with tonic water.
• Stir gently to combine.
• Garnish with a lime wedge.

Pro Tips

• Use plenty of ice to keep the tonic crisp
• Choose a dry tonic water to balance the sweetness
• Chill the glass beforehand if you can
• Don’t over-stir just a quick mix will do
• A splash of soda water cuts intensity if desired
• Add an extra lime wedge on the side for more citrus
• Try a rosemary sprig garnish for something different

When to Serve

This Green Chartreuse Tonic drink is great in warm weather, especially as a pre-dinner refresher. It’s quick to build and feels more interesting than your standard gin and tonic. Serve it at casual get-togethers, cocktail hours, or even as a low-effort nightcap. The flavor profile fits both outdoor settings and slow evenings indoors.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Green Chartreuse:

• Chartreuse Verte (official Green Chartreuse) – there’s really only one option here

Tonic Water:

• Fever-Tree Premium Indian Tonic
• Q Tonic Water
• Schweppes Tonic Water

Similar Cocktails

• Campari Tonic
• The Amalfi Buzz
• Chartreuse Swizzle
• Nuclear Daiquiri
• Strawberry Gin and Tonic

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Green Chartreuse Tonic

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword green chartreuse, tonic water, tonic water cocktails

Prep Time 4 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Author Paul Kushner

Equipment

• Jigger
• Bar Spoon
• Highball Glass

Ingredients

• 2 oz Green Chartreuse
• Tonic water to top
• Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions

• Fill a highball glass with ice.
• Pour in the Green Chartreuse.
• Top with tonic water.
• Stir gently to combine.
• Garnish with a lime wedge.

Notes

Pro Tips

• Use a high-quality tonic water to balance the intensity of the Chartreuse.
• Squeeze the lime wedge before dropping it in for added brightness.
• Want it lighter? Start with 1.5 oz Chartreuse and adjust to taste.

Tasting Notes

This Chartreuse Swizzle packs a bold mix of herbaceous, citrus, and tropical flavors. The Green Chartreuse leads with deep herbal notes and a little heat, balanced by the sweet and tangy pineapple juice. Lime juice brings a sharp, clean edge, while falernum adds spice and a hint of clove or ginger. Served over crushed ice, it’s cold, refreshing, and slightly complex without being too strong or sweet. The mint garnish adds a cooling note on the nose. It’s a chilled, slow-sipping drink that works for anyone who enjoys something with depth and brightness.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a swizzle stick or bar spoon, a jigger, and a tall glass usually a Collins or highball. A muddler isn’t needed, but a crushed ice scoop or mallet will help you pack the glass just right. If you don’t have a swizzle stick, a long spoon will work fine to mix from the bottom up. No shaker needed here; it’s a build-in-glass cocktail. Just layer the ingredients, swizzle with crushed ice, and garnish. Simple tools, classic presentation.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz green Chartreuse
• 1 oz pineapple juice
• 0.75 oz lime juice
• 0.5 oz falernum
• Crushed ice
• Mint sprig, for garnish

Instructions

• Fill your glass about halfway with crushed ice.
• Add green Chartreuse, pineapple juice, lime juice, and falernum to the glass.
• Swizzle (or stir) until the outside of the glass feels cold.
• Top with more crushed ice.
• Garnish with a mint sprig.

Pro Tips

• Swizzle from the bottom to keep flavors evenly mixed.
• Use crushed ice for proper dilution and texture.
• Fresh lime juice gives the cleanest tart flavor.
• Don’t overdo the falernum too much can hide the Chartreuse.
• Chill your glass ahead of time for extra frost.
• A few dashes of bitters can add complexity.
• Always garnish with mint it adds aroma before the first sip.
• Use Green Chartreuse only yellow is too soft for this drink.

When to Serve

This Chartreuse Swizzle cocktail is a great fit for hot weather or summer evenings. It’s also a good option when you’re looking to impress guests with something a little different. Works well at backyard gatherings, tiki-themed parties, or as a cooler drink for late afternoons. Because it’s strong yet chilled and fruit-forward, it bridges the gap between classic and tropical styles. It’s also nice as a slow sipper when you want something bold without feeling heavy.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Green Chartreuse:

• Chartreuse Verte (the original, only one available)

Falernum:

• John D. Taylor’s Velvet Falernum (classic choice)
• BG Reynolds Falernum Syrup (non-alcoholic, rich flavor)

Pineapple Juice:

• Dole (consistent and not too sweet)
• Fresh-pressed if available for brighter taste

Lime Juice:

• Always go with freshly squeezed

Similar Cocktails

• Nuclear Daiquiri
• Tropical Blue Zone
• Spicy Pineapple Ranch Water
• Pineapple Mezcal Sour
• Pineapple Mango Rum Punch

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Chartreuse Swizzle

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword Falernum, falernum cocktails, green chartreuse, Lime Juice, Mint sprig, pineapple juice, pineapple juice cocktails

Prep Time 4 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Author Paul Kushner

Equipment

• Jigger
• Bar Spoon
• Highball Glass

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz green Chartreuse
• 1 oz pineapple juice
• 0.75 oz lime juice
• 0.5 oz falernum
• Mint sprig for garnish

Instructions

• Fill your glass about halfway with crushed ice.
• Add green Chartreuse, pineapple juice, lime juice, and falernum to the glass.
• Swizzle (or stir) until the outside of the glass feels cold.
• Top with more crushed ice.
• Garnish with a mint sprig.

Notes

Pro Tips

• Use fresh lime juice it cuts through the intensity of the Chartreuse better than bottled.
• A swizzle stick works best, but a long bar spoon does the trick too.
• Clap the mint sprig before garnishing to release its aroma.

Tasting Notes

The Nuclear Daiquiri hits hard with bold, layered flavor. Jamaican rum brings heat, funk, and depth. Green Chartreuse adds intense herbal notes sharp, slightly sweet, and earthy. Lime juice cuts through with bright acidity, keeping the drink crisp. Falernum rounds things out with hints of clove, lime peel, and soft spice. This isn’t a casual cocktail it’s strong, complex, and leaves a lasting impression. You get citrus up front, followed by a deep, warming herbal finish. If you like big flavors and a stiffer pour, this one delivers without being overly sweet or watered down.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a shaker, jigger, strainer, and a coupe or small cocktail glass. A citrus juicer helps with fresh lime. Since this is a short, strong drink, a chilled glass is key. A fine strainer is optional, but good if your falernum has sediment. No garnish needed this drink is all about what’s in the glass. Keep your gear cold and ready. The drink’s simplicity doesn’t need extras just solid tools and attention to detail. If you want to prep ahead, squeeze your lime juice fresh and chill it until it’s time to shake.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Jamaican rum
• 1 oz lime juice
• 0.75 oz green Chartreuse
• 0.25 oz falernum
• Lime wheel, for garnish

Instructions

• Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Shake hard for about 10–12 seconds until well chilled.
• Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
• Add lime wheel for garnish.

Pro Tips

• Always use fresh lime juice bottled won’t cut it.
• Chill your glass ahead of time to keep it cold longer.
• Measure the Chartreuse carefully it’s strong.
• Try a funky rum like Smith & Cross or Plantation Xaymaca.
• Use a fine strainer if your falernum isn’t clear.
• Shake hard to get a clean, cold pour.
• Skip the garnish it’s not needed.
• Keep falernum refrigerated after opening.

When to Serve

This Nuclear Daiquiri drink fits best when you want something sharp, strong, and full of flavor. It’s great for late nights, serious cocktail hours, or when you want to serve something that stands out. Not ideal for big batches or sipping on a patio this one’s more focused. It’s good as a final drink of the night or as a standout in a short menu. If your guest likes bold flavors, this drink shows off rum and herbal notes in a no-nonsense way.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Jamaican Rum:

• Smith & Cross (bold and funky)
• Plantation Xaymaca (clean funk, more balanced)
• Appleton Estate Signature (less intense, but smooth)

Green Chartreuse:

• Green Chartreuse (no real substitute)

Falernum:

• John D. Taylor’s Velvet Falernum
• Bitter Truth Falernum

Similar Cocktails

• Satin Slipper
• Chartreuse Sour
• Tropical Blue Zone
• Bitter Strawberry Mai Tai
• The Last Word

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Nuclear Daiquiri

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword Falernum, falernum cocktails, green chartreuse, Jamaican rum, Lime Juice

Prep Time 4 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Author Paul Kushner

Equipment

• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger
• Fine strainer
• Coupe Glass

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Jamaican rum
• 1 oz lime juice
• 0.75 oz green chartreuse
• 0.25 oz falernum
• lime wheel for garnish

Instructions

• Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Shake hard for about 10–12 seconds until well chilled.
• Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
• Add lime wheel for garnish.

Notes

Pro Tips

• Use a high-proof Jamaican rum if you want an even bolder flavor.
• Green Chartreuse is strong don’t add extra unless you really know what you’re getting into.
• Fresh lime juice makes a big difference. Bottled won’t cut it here.

Tasting Notes

The Spring Fling 75 is a lively and elegant cocktail that brings together bright citrus, tropical fruit, and soft herbal warmth. Vodka offers a clean canvas, while Yellow Chartreuse delivers subtle spice and floral complexity. Pineapple juice adds juicy sweetness, balanced by fresh lime and smoothed with a hint of honey syrup. A splash of sparkling wine or soda lifts the drink with delicate effervescence, making it a refreshing and celebratory twist on the French 75.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a cocktail shaker for mixing, a jigger for accurate measuring, and a fine mesh strainer for a smooth pour. Serve in a chilled coupe for a classic presentation or a flute glass if adding bubbles. Use garnish tweezers for a clean finish with a lime twist or pineapple leaf.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz pineapple juice
• ½ oz Yellow Chartreuse
• ½ oz lime juice
• ½ oz honey syrup
• Splash of sparkling wine or soda for a bubbly finish
• Optional garnish: Pineapple leaf or lime twist

Instructions

• Shake: In a shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, Yellow Chartreuse, pineapple juice, lime juice, and honey syrup. Shake well until chilled.
• Strain: Strain into a chilled coupe or flute glass.
• Optional Top-Off: For a true “75” sparkle, top with a splash of sparkling wine or soda water.
• Garnish (Optional): Add a pineapple leaf or lime twist for a festive touch.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh pineapple juice and lime juice for the brightest flavor.
• Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the drink cool longer.
• Add edible flowers or a sugared rim for an elevated springtime presentation.
• For a more botanical twist, use an infused vodka like cucumber or elderflower.

When to Serve

The Spring Fling 75 is a perfect choice for brunches, spring weddings, and elegant garden parties—any occasion where a light, sparkling cocktail can shine. Its refreshing blend of tropical fruit, citrus, and floral-herbal notes makes it especially well-suited for daytime celebrations and warm-weather gatherings.

Whether served as a cheerful welcome drink or a signature cocktail at a floral-themed event, it brings a touch of brightness and sophistication to the moment. With its bubbly finish and vibrant flavors, it also doubles as an inviting pre-dinner sipper, setting the tone for festive and memorable occasions.

Recommended Brands to Use

• Vodka: Tito’s, Grey Goose, or Ketel One
• Yellow Chartreuse: The classic French herbal liqueur
• Sparkling wine: Brut Prosecco or dry Cava for a bubbly boost
• Honey syrup: Use wildflower or orange blossom honey for extra dimension

Similar Cocktails

• Blossom Bellini
• Spring Melon Spritz
• Neptune’s Nectar
• Firebirds Pineapple Martini
• Pineapple Bourbon Honey Sour

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Chartreuse Sour

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword cherry, Gin, green chartreuse, Lime, lime cocktails, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Author Paul Kushner

Equipment

• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger
• Strainer
• Bar Spoon
• Rocks Glass

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Gin
• 0.75 oz green chartreuse
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• 0.75 oz lime juice
• 1 egg white
• Lime wheel for garnish
• Cherry for garnish

Instructions

• Add the gin, green chartreuse, simple syrup, lime juice, and egg white to a cocktail shaker.
• Dry shake (without ice) to emulsify the egg white and create a frothy texture.
• Add ice to the shaker and shake again until well chilled.
• Strain the mixture into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
• Garnish with a lime wheel and cherry before serving.

Notes

Pro Tips

• Dry shaking the egg white first helps create a silky foam that elevates the texture of the drink.
• Using freshly squeezed lime juice will enhance the cocktail’s brightness and freshness.
• For a twist, try garnishing with a candied cherry for a sweet touch.

Tasting Notes

The Chartreuse Sour cocktail is a delightful blend of herbaceous and citrus flavors, with the green chartreuse adding complexity and depth. The gin’s botanical profile complements the tart lime, while the egg white provides a smooth, frothy texture that rounds out the drink. The lime wheel and cherry garnish add a refreshing finish.

Last Word

Chartreuse Swizzle

Yellowjacket

Piña Verde

Green Ghost

Tipperary

Fiscal Agent

First Frost

Lumiere

Alaska Cocktail

Champs-Élysées Cocktail

Naked and Famous

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12 Chartreuse Cocktail Recipes

Explore the unique twist Chartreuse cocktails bring to your drink selection with our roundup. Discover the herbal kick.

Course Drinks

Cuisine French

Keyword Chartreuse Cocktails

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1

Author Paul Kushner

Ingredients

• Last Word
• Chartreuse Swizzle
• Yellowjacket
• Piña Verde
• Green Ghost
• Tipperary
• Fiscal Agent
• First Frost
• Lumiere
• Alaska Cocktail
• Champs-Élysées Cocktail
• Naked and Famous

Instructions

• Pick your favorite recipe
• Gather all the needed ingredients
• Prep a chartreuse cocktail in less than 5 minutes