Flying Dutchman Cocktail

At the core of the Flying Dutchman cocktail lies an essential ingredient that not only lends its name to the drink but also provides its distinct character – genever. Genever, also known as jenever or Dutch gin, is a juniper-flavored spirit that originated in the Netherlands. It is the precursor to modern gin and carries a rich history dating back to the 16th century.

Genever is made primarily from juniper, corn, wheat, and rye, which gives it a unique and robust flavor profile. Unlike London dry gin, which is distilled multiple times, genever retains a smoother, maltier taste. This complexity is achieved by a two-step distillation process that preserves the rich and aromatic botanicals.

The Flying Dutchman’s creator, Brian MacGregor, wisely selected Genever as the foundation for his cocktail, as its earthy, juniper-forward notes provide a strong and charismatic base.

MacGregor, the visionary bartender behind the Flying Dutchman cocktail, is no stranger to the world of mixology. Known for his innovative approach and creativity, he created this cocktail during his tenure at Jardinière, a renowned restaurant in San Francisco.

The story of how MacGregor crafted the Flying Dutchman is a testament to his dedication to the art of mixology. Inspired by the name of the famous ghost ship, MacGregor sought to create a cocktail that would embody the mystique and allure of the Flying Dutchman.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the captivating recipe that is the Flying Dutchman cocktail. This cocktail, which perfectly balances sweet, herbal, and citrusy elements, showcases MacGregor’s mixological brilliance.

As the cornerstone of the cocktail, genever sets the stage with its rich and distinctive character. This Dutch spirit is reminiscent of a bridge between whiskey and gin, offering a unique blend of malted grains and juniper, giving it a robust and earthy flavor.

The inclusion of Benedictine liqueur adds depth and herbal complexity to this cocktail. This herbal liquor, crafted from a secret recipe of 27 herbs and spices, imparts a harmonious blend of floral, citrus, and herbal notes.

Yellow Chartreuse is another herbal liqueur in the mix, and it complements the Benedictine with its own unique set of herbs and botanicals. Yellow Chartreuse provides a more pronounced herbal and vegetal aspect to the cocktail, enhancing the complexity and depth of flavors.

The addition of fresh lemon juice is the citrusy counterbalance that brightens the Flying Dutchman. Its tartness cuts through the complexity of the liqueurs and genever, offering a refreshing and zesty dimension to the cocktail.

Flying Dutchman Cocktail Recipe

1. 45 ml genever

2. 22.5 ml Benedictine

3. 22.5 ml yellow Chartreuse

4. 22.5 ml fresh lemon juice

5. Ice

6. Garnish: lemon twist