Blue Curaçao is a vibrant and delicious liqueur that is synonymous with the beautiful Caribbean island of Curaçao. Made from the peel of the island’s laraha fruit, Blue Curaçao is a staple in many cocktails and is loved by people all over the world. But where does Blue Curaçao come from? What is the history of this delicious drink? And, most importantly, how can you experience it for yourself? The answer lies in a visit to the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery at Landhuis Chobolobo.
Visit the Chobolobo Distillery in Curaçao
Located in the heart of Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao, the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery at Landhuis Chobolobo has been producing the Genuine Curaçao Liqueur for over 125 years. Founded by Senior & Co. in 1896, the distillery has become an iconic landmark on the island, and a visit to the distillery is a must-do activity for any visitor to Curaçao.
Experience more than Blue Curaçao
While the Curacao Liqueur Distillery at Landhuis Chobolobo is most famous for their Blue Curacao liqueur, they also offer a range of other high-quality liqueurs. As mentioned above, the Genuine Curaçao Liqueur, which is an orange-flavored liqueur, comes in five colors: Blue, Clear, Orange, Red, and Green. In addition to this, they also offer other specialty liqueur tastes, such as Chocolate, Coffee, Rum Raisin, and Tamarind.
Overall, the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery offers a range of high-quality products that showcase the unique flavors and ingredients of Curaçao. From their famous Blue to their delicious specialty liqueurs, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Take a tour of the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery at Landhuis Chobolobo to sample some of the many delicious flavors of their Genuine Curaçao Liqueur.
The Origins of the Laraha Fruit
The laraha fruit is a unique citrus fruit that is native to the island of Curaçao. The fruit is believed to have originated from a Spanish citrus tree that was brought to the island by Spanish colonizers in the 16th century. Over time, the fruit adapted to the arid climate of Curaçao, and developed a distinct flavor and aroma that is unlike any other citrus fruit.
Originally, the laraha fruit was not cultivated for consumption, but rather for its peel. The peel of the fruit is then used to make the famous genuine Curaçao liqueur, that is made by distilling the peels of the laraha fruit and combining them with other ingredients.
Today, the laraha fruit is still grown on the island of Curaçao, where it is an important part of the island’s cultural heritage and culinary traditions.
When you take a tour of the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery at Landhuis Chobolobo, you will learn all about the history of their signature blue liqueur and how it’s made. You’ll see the distillation process in action, from the peeling of the laraha fruit to the bottling of the finished product.
Top 10 Drinks with Blue Curaçao
Here are ten of best drinks with Blue Curaçao:
- Blue Margarita – This cocktail is a twist on the classic Margarita, with Blue Curaçao added for a colorful and fruity flavor.
- Blue Hawaiian – This tropical cocktail features Blue Curaçao, pineapple juice, and coconut cream for a refreshing and fruity taste.
- Blue Lagoon – This classic cocktail features Blue Curaçao, vodka, and lemonade for a refreshing and bright blue drink.
- Blue Motorcycle – This potent cocktail features a blend of several liquors, including Blue Curaçao, for a strong and fruity taste.
- Electric Lemonade – This refreshing cocktail features Blue Curaçao, vodka, lemonade, and lemon-lime soda for a fizzy and fruity drink.
- Blueberry Lemonade – This sweet and fruity cocktail features Blue Curaçao, blueberry vodka, and lemonade for a delicious and refreshing drink.
- Blue Devil – This classic cocktail features Blue Curaçao, gin, and lemon juice for a tart and refreshing drink.
- Blue Velvet – This dessert cocktail features Blue Curaçao, raspberry liqueur, and cream for a sweet and creamy drink.
- Blue Shark – This fruity cocktail features Blue Curaçao, raspberry vodka, and lemon-lime soda for a refreshing and colorful drink.
- Bluebird – This simple cocktail features Blue Curaçao and lemonade for a refreshing and easy-to-make drink.
These are just a few examples of the many cocktails that can be made with this famous blue liqueur. Experiment with different combinations of liquors, juices, and sodas to create your own unique and delicious drinks. Additionally, sign up for Chobolobo’s Cocktail Workshop to learn from a local bartender and learn how to make delicious, tropical cocktails using the blue drink.
Dive into the Blue of Curaçao
But a visit to the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery at Landhuis Chobolobo is just one of the many amazing experiences that Curaçao has to offer. As a diver’s paradise, Curaçao boasts some of the best diving in the Caribbean. With crystal clear blue waters, diverse marine life, and over 70 dive sites to explore, it’s no wonder that Curaçao is a popular destination for scuba diving enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just starting out, there are plenty of dive sites to explore in Curaçao. From the colorful coral reefs of the East End to the hauntingly beautiful wrecks of the West End, there’s something for everyone.
And when you’re not diving, there’s plenty to see and do on the island. Take a stroll through the historic streets of Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the colorful Dutch colonial architecture. Visit the Hato Caves, a network of limestone caves filled with stalactites and stalagmites, and learn about the island’s geology and history. Or simply relax on one of the island’s many beautiful beaches, soaking up the sun and sipping on a refreshing Blue Curaçao cocktail.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your diving vacation to Curaçao today! With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and delicious blue cocktails, it’s a destination that you won’t soon forget.
Start planning to Dive Curaçao
In conclusion, Curaçao is a stunning island with a rich history, vibrant culture, and unparalleled diving opportunities. And don’t forget to add a visit to the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery at Landhuis Chobolobo to your itinerary, where you can experience the history and tastes Curaçao for yourself.. So start planning your trip today, and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Photo’s courtesy of Curacao Liqueur Distillery at Landhuis Chobolobo