Midori Melon Liqueur: The Iconic Green Elixir
Midori is a vibrant, premium Japanese melon liqueur known for its striking green color, luscious sweetness, and smooth finish. First introduced in 1978 by the Japanese spirits company Suntory, Midori quickly gained international recognition as a must-have ingredient for colorful, fruit-forward cocktails.
Named after the Japanese word for "green" (緑, Midori), this luxurious melon liqueur is crafted with real Japanese muskmelons and yubari melons, prized for their delicate aroma and naturally sweet flavor.
Production & Ingredients
Midori is made using a meticulous distillation and infusion process that captures the essence of rare and highly sought-after Japanese melons:
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Yubari King Melons – Considered the most luxurious melons in the world, these rare melons from Hokkaido bring a rich, juicy sweetness.
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Japanese Muskmelons – Grown in the Aichi and Shizuoka prefectures, these melons contribute complex aromatics and a smooth finish.
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Double Melon Distillation – The melons are distilled separately before being blended with neutral grain spirits to enhance their natural flavors.
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Sweetening & Coloring – A perfectly balanced mix of sugar and natural colorants is added to create Midori’s signature neon green hue.
With an ABV of 20%, Midori is a light yet intensely flavorful liqueur, designed to mix effortlessly into cocktails while maintaining its distinct melon essence.
Tasting Notes
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Appearance: A brilliant, neon-green glow that stands out in any cocktail.
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Aroma: Bright, fresh melon notes with hints of tropical fruit and a touch of citrus zest.
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Palate: Lush, juicy, and sweet, bursting with honeydew melon, cantaloupe, and tropical fruit flavors. The sweetness is balanced by a subtle citrus tang, making it incredibly smooth and drinkable.
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Finish: Light, crisp, and refreshing, with a lingering melon essence.
Serving Suggestions
Midori is an exceptional cocktail ingredient, lending vibrant color and a sweet melon flavor to a variety of drinks.
Classic Serve (Neat or Over Ice)
Midori Sour (The Ultimate Melon Cocktail)
Japanese Slipper (A Sophisticated Citrus-Melon Blend)
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1 part Midori
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1 part Cointreau (or another orange liqueur)
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1 part Fresh Lemon Juice
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Shaken with ice, strained into a chilled martini glass, and garnished with a cherry
Midori Margarita (A Tropical Twist on a Classic)
Melon Ball (A Fruity Highball Classic)
Midori Splice (A Creamy & Tropical Treat)
Midori is also a fantastic ingredient in desserts, adding a sweet melon twist to sorbets, cheesecakes, and tropical fruit salads.
Conclusion
Midori Melon Liqueur is a one-of-a-kind, visually striking liqueur that delivers sweet, juicy melon flavors with a smooth and refreshing finish. Whether mixed into vibrant cocktails, sipped over ice, or used in creative desserts, Midori brings a touch of Japanese elegance and tropical indulgence to any occasion. With its luminous green color and luxurious melon essence, Midori remains a standout favorite among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts worldwide.