In this true, blue interview with Lucas Bols Co. Master Distiller Monique ten Kortenaar (@distillermo), some of the topics we discuss include:

• The history of the Curaçao liqueur category, how it differs in production and flavor to similar products like Triple Sec, and how the color blue first entered the picture about 100 years ago.

• How Bols Blue 1575 separates itself from non-premium Blue Curaçaos by incorporating signature botanicals and fruity Jamaican rum into its production and blending process.

• The role that bartenders, sensory panels, and distillery guests played in the development of this and other products that Bols brings to market.

• We also take the time to have a very open conversation about the nature of “additives” in the spirits world. Given the striking hue and excellent stability of the Blue 1575, it should be no surprise that Bols uses a food grade dye. But there’s a lot that goes into the R&D and testing process for such an important component of the product, especially in the EU, where food standards are notoriously stringent.

• Along the way, we plan out an epic day-long food and culture tour to experience the best and most interesting cuisine and drink that Amsterdam has to offer, learn why Monique’s perfumer Grandfather was known as “The White Giant,” reveal which Bols product is criminally underappreciated by bartenders and consumers, and much, much more.