Chartreuse 2026: Green, Yellow, VEP, Tarragona — Complete Guide

Chartreuse is one of the most legendary liqueurs in the world, created in 1605 by the Carthusian monks of the Grande Chartreuse (Isère). A secret recipe of 130 plants known by only 2 monks at a time. ABV 55% (green), 40% (yellow). Chronic shortage since 2022 (voluntary production limit by the Carthusians).

History — From 1605 to the 2022 Shortage

Recipe given to the monastery by Marshal d'Estrées in 1605, initially a medicinal elixir. Production interrupted by the French Revolution. Distillery moved to Tarragona (Spain) in 1903 during the expulsion of the monks. Returned to Voiron in 1929. In 2022, the monks voluntarily limited production to preserve their monastic life → global shortage.

The 4 Main References

1. Chartreuse Green 55%: the most iconic, intense, herbaceous. 2. Chartreuse Yellow 40%: softer, honeyed, more accessible. 3. Chartreuse V.E.P. (Vieillissement Exceptionnellement Prolongé - Exceptionally Prolonged Aging): 8+ years in casks, prestigious. 4. Chartreuse Tarragona: Spanish editions 1903-1989, cult collector.

The 130 Secret Plants

Confidential recipe. Identified: angelica, hyssop, lemon balm, mint, sage, genepi, thyme, rosemary, lavender, and 121 other plants. Maceration + distillation by 2 monks exclusively (Brother Benoit + Brother Jean-Jacques currently).

French Artisan Alternative to Chartreuse

Faced with the 2022-2026 shortage, French artisan alternatives: De Michellot genepi 35% (iconic alpine plant), alpine plant liqueurs, herbaceous digestifs.

Iconic Chartreuse Cocktails

Last Word (gin + green Chartreuse + maraschino + lime), Bijou (gin + Chartreuse + vermouth), Tipperary (whisky + Chartreuse + vermouth), Champs-Élysées (cognac + Chartreuse + lemon), Swedish Mule (vodka + Chartreuse + ginger).

Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health. Chartreuse® is a registered trademark of the Pères Chartreux.