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Curaçao Liqueur Distillery: A Taste of Island History

Discover the vibrant history and flavors of Curaçao at the iconic Landhuis Chobolobo, home of the world-famous Blue Curaçao liqueur, crafted from the island's unique Laraha orange since 1896.

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The Curaçao Liqueur Distillery, housed in the historic Landhuis Chobolobo, offers a flavorful journey into the heart of Curaçao's culture. Here, the world-famous Blue Curaçao liqueur is crafted from the dried peels of the Laraha orange, a unique citrus fruit found only on the island. Visitors can explore the distillery, learn about the liqueur's fascinating history dating back to 1896, and witness the distillation process firsthand. The experience culminates in a tasting of the various Curaçao liqueur flavors and handcrafted cocktails in the mansion's cozy courtyard. With its vibrant atmosphere and authentic local souvenirs, the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery is a must-visit for anyone seeking a true taste of Curaçao.

A brief summary to Curaçao Liqueur Distillery

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Consider taking a guided tour for an immersive experience, including tastings and insights into the liqueur-making process.
  • Try the chocolate or tamarind flavored liqueurs for a unique twist on the classic Blue Curaçao.
  • Visit the distillery on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of Willemstad to explore more of Curaçao's rich history and culture.
  • Check the distillery's website for special events and workshops, such as cocktail-making classes.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Willemstad, the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery is accessible by public transport. Look for a 'Konvoi' bus operated by the ABC bus company departing from the Punda or Otrobanda bus station. These buses typically run every 30 minutes to an hour. Ask the driver to drop you off near the distillery on Schottegatweg Oost. The bus fare is approximately 2 ANG (about $1.15 USD). From the bus stop, it's about a 5-minute walk to the distillery at 129 Schottegatweg Oost.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Willemstad. A taxi ride from the city center to the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around 40 ANG (about $23 USD) for the trip. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Note that some taxi services may charge an administration fee of $10 for advance bookings.

  • Driving

    If driving from Willemstad, head east on Schottegatweg toward Schottegatweg Oost. Continue straight for about 3 kilometers. The Curaçao Liqueur Distillery will be on your left at 129 Schottegatweg Oost, Willemstad. Free parking is available on-site.

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Discover more about Curaçao Liqueur Distillery

A visit to the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery at Landhuis Chobolobo is more than just a tour; it's an immersion into the history, culture, and flavors of Curaçao. Located just outside of Willemstad, this iconic 19th-century country mansion is home to the world-famous Blue Curaçao liqueur, a spirit as vibrant and unique as the island itself. The story begins in 1499 when Spanish explorers brought Valencia oranges to Curaçao. The island's arid climate and infertile soil transformed these oranges into the bitter Laraha, inedible in its raw form. However, the aromatic oils within the Laraha's peel held a secret. In the 19th century, the Senior family discovered that these oils could be extracted and used to create a unique and flavorful liqueur. In 1896, Senior & Co. was founded by Edgar Senior and Haim Mendes Chumaceiro, who began producing the liqueur in their pharmacy, Botika Excelsior. They initially called it Senior's Curacao Tonic, but quickly changed the name to Senior's Curacao Liqueur. The company is now the only one that has always produced its liqueur from the peels of the Laraha from Curaçao, and label it Genuine Curaçao Liqueur. Today, the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery welcomes visitors to explore its historic grounds and learn about the liqueur-making process. Guided tours offer an immersive experience, providing unique details and in-depth knowledge about the distillery. Visitors can witness the meticulous process of peeling and drying the Laraha orange peels, followed by the distillation process in copper stills. The tour guides can do the tour in English, Spanish, and Dutch. After the tour, visitors can indulge in a tasting of the various Curaçao liqueur flavors, ranging from the classic blue to chocolate, coffee, tamarind, and more. The distillery's cozy courtyard provides a relaxing setting to savor these flavors, either neat or mixed into handcrafted cocktails. For those seeking a more hands-on experience, Chobolobo's Cocktail Workshop offers the opportunity to learn how to create your own cocktails using the famous liqueur. Landhuis Chobolobo itself is a significant part of the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery experience. This iconic 19th-century country mansion exudes a historic atmosphere, providing a glimpse into the island's past. Visitors can explore the mansion's grounds, admire its architecture, and soak in the ambiance of this cultural landmark. The distillery is wheelchair accessible. The Curaçao Liqueur Distillery is committed to sustainability, using recycled glass bottles and natural ingredients whenever possible. This commitment reflects the distillery's deep connection to the island and its desire to preserve its natural resources. Whether you're a history buff, a cocktail enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery offers something for everyone. It's a place where you can learn about the island's history, witness the art of liqueur-making, and savor the flavors of Curaçao in a truly authentic setting. The distillery is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the gift shop, where you can purchase bottles of the various Curaçao liqueur flavors, as well as authentic local souvenirs. Take a piece of Curaçao home with you and share the flavors of the island with friends and family. A visit to the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery is a journey through time, a celebration of local culture, and a testament to the ingenuity of the Curaçao people. It's an experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the island and its signature spirit.

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