Champs-Elysees

Champs-Elysees

Alessandro Scire Calabrisotto

The Champs-Élysées cocktail is an elegant and refined drink that combines cognac with green Chartreuse, lemon juice, simple syrup, and bitters. This classic French-inspired cocktail, named after Paris’s famous boulevard, is a perfect balance of citrus, herbal complexity, and smooth brandy warmth. While lesser-known than other cognac cocktails, the Champs-Élysées is a hidden gem in classic mixology.

History of the Champs-Élysées Cocktail

The Champs-Élysées first appeared in print in Harry Craddock’s 1930 The Savoy Cocktail Book, one of the most influential cocktail books of the Prohibition era. Craddock, an American bartender who worked at The Savoy Hotel in London, helped document many classic cocktails, including this sophisticated cognac-based creation.

The drink’s name pays homage to the Champs-Élysées, the grand avenue in Paris that symbolizes elegance, sophistication, and French culture. The use of cognac—a quintessentially French spirit—paired with the herbal complexity of green Chartreuse reflects the refined tastes of the early 20th century’s cocktail scene.

While the exact origins of the Champs-Élysées remain uncertain, it belongs to the family of sours, a category of cocktails that balance spirits, citrus, and sweet elements. Unlike the more widely known Sidecar, which uses orange liqueur, the Champs-Élysées stands out for its use of Chartreuse, adding a distinct herbal layer to the drink.

Though it faded into obscurity for much of the mid-20th century, the Champs-Élysées has been revived in recent years by craft bartenders who appreciate its complex yet approachable flavor profile. Today, it is celebrated as a sophisticated choice for those who love classic cocktails with depth and nuance.

Recipe: How to Make a Champs-Élysées Cocktail

The Champs-Élysées is a well-balanced cocktail that showcases the richness of cognac alongside bright citrus and herbal notes.

Ingredients:

  • 60 ml (2 oz) Cognac

  • 15 ml (0.5 oz) Green Chartreuse

  • 15 ml (0.5 oz) Fresh Lemon Juice

  • 10 ml (0.33 oz) Simple Syrup

  • 2 dashes Angostura Bitters

  • Garnish: Lemon Twist

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: Add the cognac, green Chartreuse, lemon juice, simple syrup, and bitters to a shaker filled with ice.

  2. Shake: Shake vigorously for about 10–12 seconds to properly mix and chill the ingredients.

  3. Strain: Double strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.

  4. Garnish: Express the oils from a lemon twist over the drink and drop it in for added aroma.

Tips for Perfection:

  • Use a high-quality cognac, such as VSOP, for a smoother and more refined taste.

  • Shake well to fully incorporate the citrus and herbal flavors.

  • Adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of simple syrup to taste.

Additional Recommendations

Variations:

  • Golden Champs-Élysées: Use yellow Chartreuse instead of green for a softer, milder herbal note.

  • Sparkling Champs-Élysées: Top with Champagne for an effervescent twist.

  • Spiced Champs-Élysées: Add a dash of orange bitters for extra complexity.

Pairings:

The Champs-Élysées’ citrus and herbal character pairs well with French cuisine and light appetizers. Try it with:

  • Cheese & Charcuterie: Aged cheeses and cured meats complement the drink’s richness.

  • Duck Confit: The cocktail’s bright acidity balances the richness of duck.

  • Almond Croissants: The nutty sweetness enhances the herbal notes of Chartreuse.

Presentation:

  • Serve in a chilled coupe glass for an elegant touch.

  • Use a fresh lemon twist to enhance the drink’s citrus aroma.

  • Double strain the cocktail to ensure a smooth, refined texture.

Curiosity: A Fun Fact About the Champs-Élysées Cocktail

Green Chartreuse, one of the key ingredients in the Champs-Élysées, is a monk-made herbal liqueur from France with a secret recipe of 130 botanicals. It’s one of the few liqueurs that continue to age and evolve in the bottle, making each sip a unique experience.

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