Izarra Green (Izarra Verte) is a vibrant, 40% ABV French herbal liqueur originating from the Basque Country. Created in 1906, it is crafted by blending Armagnac with a secret mix of over 13 botanicals—highlighted by peppermint, coriander, and cinnamon—and macerated prunes. It is celebrated for its intense, minty freshness and complex, spiced finish.Â
Flavor Profile & Production
- Flavor: Dominated by fresh peppermint and aniseed. The background features complex, herbaceous notes of celery, clove, and cinnamon.
- Base: Built on fine Armagnac, which adds a round, structured body that separates it from standard, sugary mint liqueurs.
- Botanicals: Uses a meticulous blend of 13 to 16 botanicals, including nutmeg, angelica, wild thyme, and cardamom, as well as a double maceration of walnut husks and Agen prunes.Â
How to Drink It
- Neat / On the Rocks: Traditionally consumed chilled or over ice as a digestif after a meal.
- In Cocktails: It serves as a great, regional alternative to Green Chartreuse in classic and modern recipes.
- Mixed Drinks: Often paired with citrus, such as in the “Izarra Limon” (mixed with lemon soda) or shaken with grapefruit juice and ice.Â
Quick Facts
- Meaning: “Izarra” translates to “star” in the Basque language.
- History: Originally formulated by pharmacist and botanist Joseph Grattau in the French Basque town of Hendaye.
- Legacy: Known historically as the “Chartreuse of the Basque Country,” it has famously been enjoyed by historical figures like Ernest Hemingway.


