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Flying Dutchman Cocktail Recipe

The Flying Dutchman cocktail recipe features genever, triple sec, Benedictine liqueur and lemon juice, all mixed together for a perfect balance of sweet and tart.

The Flying Dutchman cocktail recipe features genever, triple sec, Benedictine liqueur and lemon juice, all mixed together for a perfect balance of sweet and tart. Like all sour cocktails, it’s refreshing.

Picture this: a smooth and velvety cocktail that tantalizes your taste buds with its rich and complex flavors. A cocktail so delicious that it makes you feel like you’re on cloud nine, soaring high above the world below. That, my friends, is the Flying Dutchman cocktail.

Flying Dutchman cocktail in martini glassPin

But what is the Flying Dutchman cocktail exactly? Why is it so special, and how do you make one? 

History of the Flying Dutchman cocktail

The Flying Dutchman cocktail is a classic drink that has been enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts for decades. It was invented by Brian MacGregor while he was working as a bartender at Jardinière in San Francisco. MacGregor combined genever with Chartreuse, Benedictine and lemon juice to create this cocktail.

How Hard is it to Make the Flying Dutchman Cocktail Recipe?

Short answer: not hard at all. This is a simple cocktail made by shaking the ingredients together in a shaker and then straining them into a glass.

The hardest part is squeezing the lemon juice, and that’s not hard at all.

The perfect occasion to serve a Flying Dutchman cocktail

When it comes to the Flying Dutchman cocktail, there is no denying that this drink is great for special occasions. Whether you are celebrating a milestone birthday, an anniversary or simply hosting a fancy dinner party – this cocktail will add that extra touch of elegance and sophistication to any event.

The Flying Dutchman cocktail is not just any ordinary drink. Its unique flavor profile and beautiful yellow color make it the perfect choice for formal events such as black-tie dinners, galas and weddings. The smoothness of the genever (or gin, if you can’t find genever) combined with the sweetness of the liqueurs and sour of the lemon juice makes it an ideal drink for sipping while enjoying hors d’oeuvres or light appetizers before a meal.

How to pair Flying Dutchman cocktail with food

The bold flavor profile of the Flying Dutchman makes it a perfect cocktail to pair with a variety of different foods. Its depth and complexity make it an ideal match for savory dishes that can handle its boldness.

One excellent pairing is a juicy, flavorful steak. The blend of sweet and sour in the cocktail perfectly complements the rich, meaty flavor of a great steak. Additionally, cheese and charcuterie boards are another great option for pairing with this complex drink. 

How to Garnish Your Flying Dutchman Cocktail to Perfection

The original recipe doesn’t call for any garnish, but that shouldn’t stop you. You can add a lemon twist or wheel. A sprig of rosemary could also work, representing the herbal notes in this drink.

You can also consider the glassware. A classic coupe or martini glass works best for this particular cocktail. Next, choose a garnish that complements the flavors of the drink. A simple twist of lemon or orange peel can add a touch of citrusy freshness while a sprig of thyme or rosemary can bring out the herbal notes in the cocktail.

Cheers!

In conclusion, the Flying Dutchman cocktail is a complex, flavorful drink with a rich history. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply elevate your own cocktail game, the Flying Dutchman is an excellent choice.

With its unique flavor profile and versatile serving options, this drink is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The next time you’re in the mood for something special, try mixing up a Flying Dutchman.

Yield: 1 drink

Flying Dutchman cocktail recipe

Flying Dutchman cocktail in martini glass

The Flying Dutchman cocktail recipe features genever, triple sec, Benedictine liqueur and lemon juice, all mixed together for a perfect balance of sweet and tart.

Prep Time 3 minutes
Total Time 3 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 ounces Bols genever
  • 3/4 ounce Benedictine
  • 3/4 ounce yellow Chartreuse
  • 3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Chill a cocktail glass.
  2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
  3. Pour all ingredients into the shaker.
  4. Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
  5. Strain into the chilled cocktail glass.

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Last Updated:

June 6, 2025

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