5 to Try: Melon Liqueur

Melon liqueurs can be a divisive category, as clearly demonstrated by their most famous offering, Midori. Launched in the U.S. in the late 1970s, the neon-green liqueur was a hit among the disco crowd before changing tastes gradually relegated it to the back of bar shelves. But a recalibrated formula, launched in 2012, has found favor among bartenders looking to experiment, as we explore in our September/October 2024 issue. But Midori isn’t the only option for fans of melon. From colorful liqueurs to delicate aperitifs, here are five bottles that translate the authentic flavor of melon to the glass.

Gabriel Boudier Creme de Melons Verts

Operating in Dijon since 1874, Maison Gabriel Boudier specializes in fruit liqueurs. The vibrantly hued Creme de Melons Vert macerates fresh green melons sourced from Honduras and China into neutral alcohol before sweetening with sugar. A clean, ripe melon aroma is matched by sweet melon flavor balanced with a light acidity. Try this one as a more delicate alternative to Midori. $28.19, saratogawine.com

Aelred Melon Aperitif

Made in Provence using ripe Cavaillon melons, this aperitif style melon liqueur is both lighter on sweetness and lower in alcohol at 12-percent ABV. Brightly aromatic with a juicy, melon sweetness tempered by the addition of lemon juice, this aperitif would make a knockout spritz. But we also love it in creative cocktail applications, such as the Palm Springs Martini from Dutch Kills. $29, theepicureantrader.com

Giffard Watermelon Liqueur

The sweet, fresh taste of ripe watermelon can be difficult to translate to a cocktail without diluting the flavor and aroma. This is where liqueurs can offer a real boost, and the watermelon liqueur from historic French maker Giffard nails it. Made with an infusion of Spanish watermelons, the liqueur gives a clean and balanced flavor, with a hint of candy sweetness that avoids being cloying. $17.77, masterofmalt.com

Furore Meloncello

An unique twist on limoncello, this Italian digestif combines the gentle sweetness of melon with the extra aromatic quality of organic lemons from the Amalfi Coast. Like traditional limoncello, the Meloncello could easily be enjoyed as chilled, post-prandial pour, or get creative with cocktail applications. $37, dolceterra.com

Joseph Cartron Melon Liqueur

Historic Burgundian liqueur makers Joseph Cartron utilize fresh, seasonal fruit for their rainbow of infused spirits. The melon liqueur is made with late-harvested Cavaillon melons to lend an extra juicy sweetness and aroma. The result is a well-balanced liqueur with a true melon flavor that carries through well in cocktails. $18.10, masterofmalt.com