The Dubonnet Cocktail is a wonderfully understated classic that allows a quality gin to take centre stage. Dating back to the 1930s, the original serve was presented without garnish. Today it is commonly finished with a twist of lemon or orange peel to lift the aromas and add a touch of freshness.
The cocktail has long been associated with the Royal Family. It is widely reported that Queen Elizabeth II enjoyed a Dubonnet and Gin before lunch, helping to cement its reputation as one of Britain's most elegant aperitifs. Over the years, bartenders have created numerous variations, often replacing traditional dry vermouth with Dubonnet to add greater richness and complexity. To celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, cocktail expert Simon Difford even created a modern interpretation that retained the dry vermouth while increasing the overall strength of the drink.
At the heart of the cocktail is Dubonnet itself. Created in 1846 by Parisian chemist and wine merchant Joseph Dubonnet, it was originally developed to encourage French soldiers stationed in North Africa to consume quinine as protection against malaria. The fortified wine combines herbs, spices, blackcurrant, tea and quinine, producing a distinctive balance of sweetness, fruit and gentle bitterness.
Combined with a well-crafted gin, the result is a sophisticated cocktail with remarkable depth and character.
The spirit was awarded a coveted Royal Warrant in 2021.
Ease of Making: Easy, amend quantities as needed.
Glass Type: Nick & Nora or Old Fashioned (Tumbler)
Taste: Boozy, spirit led with herbal notes, citrus from the garnish
Recipe:
- 30 ml Explorer’s Gin.
- 30ml Dry Vermouth.
- 30ml Dubonnet.
- Garnish with either lemon or orange peel.
Method:
- Place ice into a cocktail shaker.
- Add the gin, vermouth and dubonnet.
- Stir the spirits with a barspoon until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled glass.
- Garnish.
Variations:
- Different dry vermouths will influence the flavour profile, we enjoy Lillet Blanc.
- If you can not chill your glass, add ice like, which will help dilute this punchy number!
