What Makes a Great Blue Curaçao?

• Authenticity: Traditional Blue Curaçao comes from the island of Curaçao and is made using Laraha orange peels, giving it a signature bitter-sweet citrus taste.
• Flavor Balance: Some brands lean towards artificial sweetness, while others keep things more natural.
• Alcohol Content: Blue Curaçao typically ranges from 15% to 40% ABV, so depending on how strong you want your cocktails, you might prefer one over another.
• Mixability: The best brands enhance cocktails rather than overpowering them.
• Price and Availability: Premium brands offer top-tier quality, but there are also great budget-friendly options.

Key Takeaway: The best Blue Curaçao should have a good balance of citrus and sweetness, mix well in cocktails, and be made with quality ingredients.

Top Blue Curaçao Brands You Should Try

• Senior & Co. Blue Curaçao – The Real Deal: If you’re after authenticity, Senior & Co. Blue Curaçao is the original and best choice. Made on the island of Curaçao with real Laraha oranges, it sticks to traditional methods that have been used since the 19th century. It has a perfect mix of bitterness and citrus, making it a go-to for serious cocktail enthusiasts. Unlike some brands, it’s not overly sweet, which allows for a more refined flavor in drinks.
• Bols Blue Curaçao – A Classic Favorite: A widely recognized name, Bols Blue Curaçao is popular for its deep blue color and sweet, citrusy flavor. While it doesn’t use authentic Laraha oranges, it still delivers a delicious, easy-to-mix profile. It’s found in bars worldwide and is great for giving drinks that bold blue hue without overpowering other ingredients.
• De Kuyper Blue Curaçao – Well-Balanced and Versatile: For those looking for something that sits right in the middle—neither too bitter nor too sweet—De Kuyper Blue Curaçao is a fantastic option. It has a smooth citrus profile that works well in just about any cocktail. It’s also one of the most widely available brands, making it easy to grab a bottle for your home bar.
• Drillaud Blue Curaçao – A Touch of Elegance: If you’re after something a bit more refined, Drillaud Blue Curaçao is a great pick. Made in France, this brand offers a premium take on Blue Curaçao with a smoother taste and less artificial sweetness. It’s a great choice if you’re making upscale cocktails and want a more polished flavor profile.
• Giffard Blue Curaçao – High-End and Naturally Flavored: For a truly top-shelf option, Giffard Blue Curaçao is an excellent pick. It’s made with natural fruit extracts and has a carefully balanced sugar level, making it one of the best-tasting Blue Curaçaos on the market. It’s less artificial and more refined, which is perfect for anyone who wants their cocktails to taste as good as they look.

How to Use Blue Curaçao in Cocktails

• Classic Cocktails That Use Blue Curaçao: Some of the best-known cocktails wouldn’t be the same without Blue Curaçao. The Blue Lagoon is a fan favorite, mixing vodka, Blue Curaçao, and lemonade to create a refreshing and eye-catching drink. The Blue Hawaiian takes things up a notch with rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream, giving you a tropical vacation in a glass. Then there’s Electric Lemonade, which adds a citrusy punch with vodka, lemon juice, and a splash of soda.
• Other Fun Ways to Use Blue Curaçao: If you’re feeling adventurous, Blue Curaçao can be used beyond traditional cocktails. It’s great for layered shots, thanks to its vibrant color and density. Some people even use it in mocktails, swapping out the alcohol for a Blue Curaçao-flavored syrup to keep the color and taste. And if you’re a fan of desserts, a few drops can add a citrusy kick to sorbets and other sweet treats.

Final Thoughts

Blue Curaçao is a staple in mixology, and choosing the right brand can take your cocktails to the next level. If you want the most authentic experience, Senior & Co. is unbeatable. For a widely available and budget-friendly option, Bols is a solid pick. If you’re looking for something more premium, Giffard or Drillaud won’t disappoint. No matter which brand you choose, Blue Curaçao is sure to bring both color and flavor to your drinks.

If you’re serious about making amazing cocktails, experimenting with different Blue Curaçao brands can help you find the perfect fit for your taste. So, grab a bottle, mix up a drink, and enjoy the magic of this iconic blue liqueur!

FAQs

What’s the difference between Blue Curaçao and Triple Sec?

Both are orange-flavored liqueurs, but Blue Curaçao has a slightly bitter note and a bold blue color, while Triple Sec is clear and usually a bit sweeter.

Can you drink Blue Curaçao by itself?

You can, but it’s pretty strong and is typically used as a cocktail ingredient rather than a sipping liqueur. If you do drink it on its own, expect a bold citrus flavor with a slight bitterness.

Is Blue Curaçao alcoholic?

Yes, traditional Blue Curaçao contains alcohol, usually ranging from 15% to 40% ABV. However, there are non-alcoholic Blue Curaçao syrups available if you want the color and flavor without the booze.

Does the blue color change the taste?

Nope! The blue color is just for aesthetics—it doesn’t affect the flavor. The taste comes from the citrus infusion, which is usually made with orange peels.