Curacao Liqueur

The island of Curacao may be best known for the alcohol that bears its name. Blue Curacao is a signature—and colorful—liqueur that is steeped in the island’s history, and you can visit the home of the original Blue Curacao at the Curacao Liqueur Distillery. The Triple Sec-style liqueur is made from the peels of the Laraha fruit. Though Laraha evolved from Valencia oranges brought to the island in 1499 by Spanish settlers, this bitter orange is now unique to Curacao because it adapted to the island’s desert like climate, making it inedible when fresh. However, used as a flavoring steeped in the alcohol it releases fragrant oils that create the signature flavor. 

Practical Info

The Curacao Liqueur Distillery is about 10 minutes’ drive north of Willemstad, and you can stop by for a free factory visit—hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.—and have a cocktail at Chobolobo Café.