Lillet, the classic apéritif from Bordeaux, and a staple of sidewalk cafés and early evening cocktail parties across Paris, is quickly becoming a must-have summer spritz in Ireland. This cocktail is easy to make and so deliciously refreshing – the perfect summer drink!
The iconic French apéritif Lillet - pronounced lee-lay - was created in 1872 and is a blend of wine and citrus liqueurs. Carefully crafted and aged in oak, Lillet has a soft and rich character and is currently available in three varieties; Lillet Blanc, Lillet Rouge, and Lillet Rosé.
Every year, Lillet carefully selects the best fruits, fruit peels and barks for their freshness and aromatic richness; sweet oranges from Turkey, Spain or Morocco, bitter oranges from Haiti, and quinine from South America. These are blended with red or white wine and other secret ingredients to create this delicious apéritif.
READ MORE: How to make the ultimate whiskey sour
Lillet Blanc and Lillet Rouge cuvées spend several months in oak barrels allowing the aromas to mellow and its unique characteristic taste to mature, while Lillet Rosé is bottled directly to keep its freshness and lightness.
For the perfect summer cocktail, try out the Lillet Rosé spritz recipe below.
Lillet Rosé spritz
Serves one
Ingredients
- 50ml Lillet Rosé, chilled
- 100ml premium tonic water
- Slice of lime
- Sliced strawberries
Method
- Pour the chilled Lillet Rosé into a large wine glass full of ice cubes.
- Add the tonic water and stir gently.
- Garnish with lime and strawberry.
