Top 3 Curaçaoan Orange Liqueurs

Blue Curaçao is a type of Curaçao liqueur—naturally colorless liqueur that is flavored with Laraha oranges. This variety is artificially colored to attain its distinctive, vibrant blue color. This clear drink has a typical orange flavor, though the final taste profile may vary depending on the producer. There are several manufactures on the market, but they are not necessarily located on Curaçao, and some even do not use Laraha oranges. Blue Curaçao is mostly used as a flavoring and coloring agent in cocktails. Expand

Curaçao is a popular liqueur flavored with Laraha (Curaçao orange), which is cultivated on the namesake island in the southern Caribbean Sea. The story of its invention started in the 16th century when the Spanish colonizers brought Valencian oranges to Curaçao. The fruit did not adapt well to the local climate, and it was almost inedible. It took decades for the locals to realize that the dried peel is rich with essential oils and incredibly aromatic. The peel was then used in the production of liqueurs, and though it is not certain, many believe that the commercial production was started in 1896 by the Senior family. Nowadays, there are several manufacturers that produce Curaçao, but not all are made with the local oranges or even on the island. The drink also comes in several varieties that include additional flavorings and colorings. It is mostly used as a cocktail ingredient.Expand

Orange Curaçao belongs to the group of Curaçao liqueurs, which originate from the namesake island. The original version of Curaçao was flavored with Laraha oranges, and in its basic form, the drink is clear and colorless. Additional colorings, in this case orange, were mostly added for decorative purposes, but the producers often add other ingredients to the mix, which creates a variety of flavor profiles. There are no specific regulations for the production of Curaçao liqueurs, and they are produced in several countries around the world. The use of native Laraha oranges is also not regulated, and producers often opt for other varieties of bitter oranges. Orange Curaçao typically has a vibrant orange or light red color and a distinctive orange flavor. It can be sipped on its own, but it is usually used as a cocktail ingredient. The name is also often used as a generic term for orange-flavored liqueurs. Expand