As the weather starts to warm up and the flowers bloom, it's time to start thinking about refreshing cocktails in the spring sunshine. If you're looking for a light and elegant option, Lillet is a perfect choice. This French aperitif blends wine and citrus liqueurs, making it the ideal base for cocktails.
Lillet has a rich history dating back to 1872 when the Lillet brothers in Podensac, a small town near Bordeaux in France first created it. The original recipe for Lillet was a blend of Bordeaux wines and citrus liqueurs. Still, over the years, the formula has been refined to create the two primary varieties of Lillet available today: Lillet Blanc and Lillet Rouge. However, in 2011, Lillet Rosé was introduced.
Lillet Blanc is a light and refreshing aperitif that is perfect for spring. It is made from a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadelle wines and is infused with orange liqueur and a combination of botanicals, including quinine. The result is a delicate, floral flavour with a hint of citrus and a subtle bitterness that makes it perfect for cocktails.
On the other hand, Lillet Rouge is a richer and more complex aperitif that is perfect for sipping on its own or in cocktails. It is made from a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc wines and is infused with orange liqueur, a combination of botanicals, and a touch of vanilla. The result is a deep red colour and a flavour that is both fruity and spicy, with a hint of bitterness.
Additionally, Lillet Rosé has a pink colour and a fruity flavour with notes of berries and a hint of grapefruit. It is perfect for spring and summer sipping and can be enjoyed independently or used in various cocktails.
So how can you use Lillet in your spring cocktails? Here are a few ideas:
Lillet Spritz: Combine Lillet Blanc, sparkling water, and a splash of grapefruit juice in a glass of ice. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit and a sprig of thyme.
Lillet Margarita: Combine Lillet Blanc, tequila, lime juice, and agave syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a salt-rimmed glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lime wedge.
Lillet Negroni: Combine Lillet Rouge, gin, and sweet vermouth in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange twist.
Lillet Martini: Combine Lillet Blanc, gin, and a dash of orange bitters in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Lillet is a versatile and elegant aperitif that is perfect for spring. Whether you're sipping on it straight or using it as a cocktail base, its delicate flavour and refreshing bitterness will leave you wanting more. So why not try it this spring and book a Cocktail Walk to see for yourself why Lillet is the perfect spring fling? Do you want a bottle for yourself? Order Lillet here.