Midori Melon Liqueur is a premium Japanese spirit celebrated for its vibrant green hue, luscious sweetness, and unique melon flavor extracted from rare Yubari and musk melons. Crafted with exceptional attention to detail, Midori blends the essence of these prized Japanese melons with a neutral grain spirit, brandy, and sugar, resulting in a smooth, velvety texture and enticing aroma of honeydew, white flowers, and green apple. Its 20% ABV and versatile flavor profile make Midori ideal for enhancing cocktails like the classic Midori Sour or colorful fruit pairings. Perfect for creative mixologists or casual enjoyment, this iconic liqueur is a must-have for any well-stocked bar.
Process & Profile
Midori's exquisite flavor begins with the finest muskmelons: Yubari King melons, cultivated in Japan's nutrient-rich volcanic soil, and musk melons from Aichi and Shizuoka provinces. These melons are celebrated for their exceptional sweetness. The production process involves extracting the essence of the melons through infusion and distillation methods. This concentrated melon spirit is then blended with high-quality cognac and sugar, delivering the perfect balance of flavor. The final touch is its signature emerald green color, a nod to the vibrant landscapes of Japan. Midori is crafted to perfection in facilities in Japan, France, and Mexico, ensuring its premium quality worldwide.
Tasting Notes
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Appearance: Bright, inviting emerald green.
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Nose: Sweet aromas of fresh melon and a hint of bubblegum.
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Palate: A luscious burst of melon flavors with candy-like sweetness and subtle complexities. The smooth texture and balanced sweetness deliver an unparalleled drinking experience.
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Finish: Sweet, light, and refreshing, with a lingering hint of melon essence.
What Makes It Special
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Rare Melons: Midori uses Japanese Yubari King and musk melons, renowned for their premium quality and high market value due to their rarity.
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Meticulous Craftsmanship: From infusion and distillation to blending with brandy, every step of the process highlights Suntory's expertise in creating a world-class liqueur.
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Versatility: Midori shines in cocktails, blending easily with citrus, berries, and even creamy ingredients. Its vibrant color adds visual appeal to any drink.
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Rich Heritage: Developed in 1964 and introduced to the global market in 1978, Midori has a storied history connected to high-profile cocktails and international recognition.
How to Enjoy
Midori's adaptability makes it perfect for a variety of uses:
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Classic Cocktails: Try a *Midori Sour* with lemon juice, lime juice, and soda water, or a sweet *Japanese Slipper* featuring Cointreau and fresh citrus.
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Mixed Pairings: Combine with juices like pineapple, orange, or apple for a fruity delight.
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Creamy Creations: Add to creamy drinks or shots for a rich, dessert-like experience.
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Straight or On the Rocks: Experience its pure melon flavor as a standalone drink or over ice for a refreshing indulgence.
Elevate Your Bar
Midori Melon Liqueur is a must-have for any bar collection. Its iconic flavor, striking color, and incredible versatility ensure crowd-pleasing drinks for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a casual enthusiast, Midori will inspire your creativity and delight your palate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Midori Melon Liqueur made from?
Midori is made using Yubari King melons and muskmelons, two premium Japanese melon varieties. The liqueur is created by blending the melon essence with neutral grain spirit, brandy, sugar, and food coloring to achieve its distinctive bright green color.
What does Midori taste like?
Midori has a sweet, fruity flavor that resembles a mix of honeydew and muskmelon. Its sweetness is balanced by a subtle dryness, making it versatile in cocktails.
What is the alcohol content of Midori Melon Liqueur?
Midori has an alcohol content of 20% ABV (40 proof).
Is Midori gluten-free?
Yes, like most distilled spirits, Midori is gluten-free unless gluten ingredients are specifically added after distillation.
How should Midori be served?
Midori can be enjoyed in various ways, including in cocktails, on the rocks, or as a shot. It pairs well with juices, white spirits, and other liqueurs.
What cocktails can I make with Midori?
Popular cocktails include:
- *Midori Sour*: A mix of Midori, lemon juice, lime juice, and soda water.
- *Melon Ball*: Midori, vodka, and orange juice.
- *Japanese Slipper*: Midori, Cointreau, and lemon juice.
Why is Midori bright green?
The name "Midori" means "green" in Japanese, and its vivid color comes from added food coloring, inspired by the natural green hue of muskmelons.
Where is Midori produced?
Originally produced in Japan, Midori is now manufactured in Japan, Mexico, France, and the United States.
Are there any unique features about the melons used in Midori?
The Yubari King melon is one of the most expensive fruits in the world, known for its juicy sweetness, while muskmelons from Japan are prized for their rich flavor and aromatic qualities.
When was Midori first introduced?
Midori was first launched in 1964 as "Hermes Melon Liqueur" in Japan and rebranded as "Midori" in 1978 when it debuted in the United States at a Studio 54 party.
Can I drink Midori straight?
While Midori is extremely sweet and typically used in cocktails, it can be consumed straight, preferably over ice.
Is Midori suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, Midori is suitable for vegetarians and vegans, as it does not contain any animal-derived ingredients.
What makes Midori ideal for cocktails?
Midori's sweet melon flavor and vibrant green hue make it a favorite for visually appealing and fruity cocktails, especially for parties and special occasions.
