Green Chartreuse is a French herbal liqueur of legendary intensity — vivid, high-proof and unmistakably herbal — and it is poured at Grappa in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood. Made by Carthusian monks from a recipe known only to a few, it draws its natural green hue from the plants and herbs steeped within it. We list it because few spirits carry such history and character, equally compelling as a bold after-dinner sip or as the backbone of a classic cocktail.
About the Producer
Chartreuse is named for the Carthusian order, whose monks have produced the liqueur since 1737, working from an alchemical manuscript said to date to 1605 describing an elixir of long life. Only a small number of monks have ever known the complete recipe. The order has weathered expulsion from France and a long exile, and today still makes the liqueur near the Grande Chartreuse monastery in the French Alps, with production deliberately limited so the monks can protect their contemplative life.
Style & Production
Green Chartreuse is the original expression, built on a maceration of a great many plants, herbs and flowers, then aged. It is notably higher in proof than Yellow Chartreuse, which gives it its forceful, peppery herbal drive, and its green color comes naturally from the botanicals rather than from any added coloring. The full blend remains a closely guarded secret of the order, so its remarkable complexity is best experienced rather than itemized.
Tasting Notes
Bright and powerful on the nose, with a rush of mint, anise, pine and green herbs. The palate is intense and warming, layered with peppery spice and a deep botanical bitterness held in balance by gentle sweetness. The finish is long, heat-laced and aromatic — a glass that announces itself with conviction.
What to Pair It With
Its bold herbal heat is a striking partner for dessert. Pour it after our Flourless Chocolate Cake, alongside Mama’s Tiramisu, or with a generous Charcuterie Board. See the full dine-in menu for more.
How It’s Served at Grappa
Green Chartreuse is poured at $21, served neat, over ice, or in a cocktail.
FAQ
Where is it from?
It is a French herbal liqueur made by Carthusian monks, produced today near the Grande Chartreuse monastery in the French Alps.
What does it taste like?
It is intense and herbal, with mint, anise, pine and peppery spice over a deep botanical bitterness, finishing long and warming.
Why is it green?
Its natural green color comes from the many plants and herbs macerated in the liqueur, not from any added coloring.
When you’re ready, book a table, explore the cocktail & spirits list, and browse the dine-in menu.
