Spring Cocktail with Lillet Rosé

Lillet is a French aperitif wine made in Podensac, a small village south of Bordeaux. It is a blend of Bordeaux grapes and citrus liqueurs.  The mixture is blended in oak vats and aged as a Bordeaux wine.  It is nicely balanced, not too sweet and not too bitter.  We love it mixed with grapefruit juice and gin.  Lillet is refreshing and is perfect for brunch!  We prefer it chilled and will serve it with a twist of grapefruit.  Lillet comes in two versions, blanc and rouge.  Lillet Blanc is made from Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes, while Lillet Rouge includes Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend.  Once opened, Lillet should be kept refrigerated and should be used within three weeks.

12 ounces Lillet Rosé
12 ounces Ruby Red grapefruit juice
6 ounces gin (optional)

1. In a large cocktail shaker, combine 6 ounces Lillet, 6 ounces grapefruit juice, 3 ounces of gin, and ice.     
2. Shake until well chilled.
3. Strain and divide cocktail among 3 stemmed cocktail glasses.  Repeat
4. Serve immediately.

RESOURCE LINKS

• OXO Good Grips Wooden Reamer
• WMF Cocktail Shaker