Midori Melon Liqueur

Suntory launched this melon liqueur in Japan in 1964 under the name Hermes, then renamed it Midori, Japanese for green, for its US debut in 1978, reportedly at a party at Studio 54. It is flavored with Yubari and muskmelons and bottled at 20%.

It is neon green and tastes the way it looks: sweet honeydew, a little green apple and a clean, floral finish. It is meant for mixing. Its textured bottle is hard to miss on a back bar.

Bols Melon costs less and is fine for a pitcher. Buy Midori for a Midori Sour or a Japanese Slipper, where the brand's flavor is the drink.

The house drink is the Midori Sour: Midori, fresh lemon and soda over ice. For a Japanese Slipper, shake it with Cointreau and lemon juice.

More fruit liqueurs are under liqueurs and cordials. Pick it up at our Brooklyn store or get same-day delivery in Brooklyn, Manhattan & Queens.