Yellow Parrot Cocktail

The Yellow Parrot is a classic cocktail that beautifully balances the complex herbal notes of Yellow Chartreuse with the sweet, fruity character of apricot liqueur. A dash of absinthe adds an intriguing anise aroma and depth, creating a sophisticated and aromatic drinking experience. It is a beautiful, golden-hued drink that hails from the golden age of cocktails, offering a unique taste that stands out from more common recipes.
Yellow Parrot Cocktail

Preparation

Preparation time: 3 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

The Yellow Parrot is classified as a classic cocktail, originating from the pre-Prohibition era. It is a spirit-forward drink, typically served as an apéritif.

Serving

Served 'straight up' in a pre-chilled coupe or cocktail glass, the Yellow Parrot is a potent but refined drink. Its alcohol content is noticeable but well-integrated into the sweet and herbal flavor profile.
Serving size
Approx. 3 oz / 90 ml
Alcohol content
Estimated 28-32% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Coupe
Glass treatment
Chilled

Backstory

The Yellow Parrot cocktail first appeared in Harry McElhone's 1927 book, "Barflies and Cocktails." It is believed to have been created at his world-renowned Harry's New York Bar in Paris during the roaring twenties. The name is a direct reference to its striking, bright yellow color, which comes from the Yellow Chartreuse.
Origin
The cocktail originated in Paris, France, circa the 1920s. Its first known publication was in 1927, cementing its place among the classic drinks of that era.

Yellow Parrot Cocktail

The drink's original name is the French "Le Perroquet Jaune," which translates directly to "The Yellow Parrot." In the English-speaking world, it is almost exclusively known by its translated name, the Yellow Parrot Cocktail.
Original name
Le Perroquet Jaune
Alternative name
Yellow Parrot

Characteristics overview

The Yellow Parrot presents a complex bouquet of herbal and anise aromas, leading to a silky, sweet, and botanical flavor profile with a long, warming finish. Its brilliant yellow hue is as captivating as its taste.
Flavor
Herbal, sweet, fruity, anise, honeyed, botanical, complex
Aroma
Anise, herbal, apricot, floral, citrus
Taste balance
Sweet, herbal, slightly bitter
Aftertaste
Long, herbal, warming, complex
Fizziness
None
Color appearance
Bright yellow, golden, clear
Texture
Silky, smooth, rich
Seasonality
All-season, warming

Flavor intensity & Experience

It's a moderately sweet, fruity, and herbal drink with a noticeable alcohol presence. The flavor is complex but balanced, without strong bitterness or sourness.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

This classic cocktail requires just three ingredients in equal parts: Yellow Chartreuse, apricot liqueur, and absinthe. The quality of these liqueurs will directly impact the final taste.
  • Yellow Chartreuse1 ounce / 30 ml
    The key ingredient, providing herbal sweetness and its signature color.
  • Apricot Liqueur1 ounce / 30 ml
    Also known as Apricot Brandy. Provides fruity sweetness and body.
  • Absinthe1 ounce / 30 ml
    The original 1927 equal-parts recipe is very potent. Many modern interpretations use a smaller amount (e.g., 1/4 oz) or just a rinse to suit contemporary palates.

Ice type

  • Cubed

Mixing equipments

You will need a standard cocktail shaker set for this drink. Using both a Hawthorne and a fine-mesh strainer (double straining) is recommended for a perfectly smooth texture.
  • Cocktail shaker for chilling and mixing.
  • Jigger for accurate measurement.
  • Hawthorne strainer for pouring from the shaker.
  • Fine-mesh strainer for double straining.

Instructions

The process is a straightforward shake and strain. Simply combine all ingredients in an ice-filled shaker, shake until well-chilled, and double strain into a chilled coupe glass before garnishing.
1. Chill a coupe or cocktail glass by filling it with ice or placing it in the freezer.
2. Add the Yellow Chartreuse, apricot liqueur, and absinthe to a cocktail shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with cubed ice.
4. Shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds until the outside of the shaker is frosty.
5. Discard the ice from your chilled glass.
6. Double strain the mixture from the shaker into the chilled glass.
7. Take a lemon peel, express its oils over the surface of the drink, and drop it in as a garnish.

Garnishing

A simple lemon twist is the ideal garnish. Expressing its oils over the drink releases a bright citrus aroma that complements the herbal and sweet notes of the cocktail.
  • Lemon Twist: Express the oils from a lemon peel over the drink's surface before dropping it in.

Dietary Information

This cocktail is naturally free from common allergens like dairy, eggs, gluten, and nuts. As it contains no animal products, it is suitable for both vegan and vegetarian diets.
✓ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

This cocktail is relatively high in sugar and calories due to its composition of three sweet liqueurs. It's a rich, flavorful drink best enjoyed in moderation.
Calories
Averagely 220 kcal / 920 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Averagely 20 grams
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Averagely 20 grams
Sugar level

Occasions

This drink is perfect as a sophisticated aperitif before dinner or as a unique offering at a cocktail party. Its classic profile makes it suitable for any occasion that calls for a refined and flavorful cocktail.
  • Aperitif
  • Cocktail Party
  • Sophisticated Gathering
  • Historical Drink Tasting

Pairing suggestions

The Yellow Parrot pairs well with light, complementary flavors that won't overwhelm its complex profile. Consider serving it alongside mild cheeses, fruit-based desserts, or simple butter cookies to balance its herbal sweetness. It serves as an excellent digestif on its own.
  • Mild cheeses like goat cheese or Brie.
  • Fruit tarts or desserts with stone fruit.
  • Shortbread cookies or simple biscuits.

The Yellow Parrot: A Forgotten Classic of Parisian Nightlife

The Yellow Parrot is a forgotten classic from 1920s Paris, a testament to the elegant and potent cocktails of the era. Composed of equal parts Yellow Chartreuse, apricot liqueur, and absinthe, it delivers a complex, aromatic, and surprisingly smooth experience. Its beautiful golden color and sophisticated flavor profile make it a perfect choice for those looking to explore the deeper cuts of cocktail history. A true connoisseur's drink, it's a delightful journey of herbal, fruity, and anise notes.

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