A well-made Dubonnet Cocktail is a little sip of history—smooth, aromatic, and beautifully balanced between sweet and bitter. This classic drink has been a favorite of royalty for generations, and after one taste, you’ll see why. It’s simple to make, yet full of character, making it a perfect choice for both casual sipping and elegant occasions.
Dubonnet Cocktail
What You’ll Need
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1 cocktail
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz (45ml) gin
- 1.5 oz (45ml) Dubonnet Rouge
- Lemon twist, for garnish
How to Make It
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Pour in the gin and Dubonnet Rouge.
- Stir for about 30 seconds, until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist—twist it over the drink to release the oils, then drop it in.
That’s it! A beautifully balanced Dubonnet Cocktail, ready to enjoy.
Tips for the Best Dubonnet Cocktail
- Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the drink nice and cold.
- Use a fresh lemon for the garnish—the oils add an extra layer of aroma.
- Stir, don’t shake—this keeps the drink smooth and silky instead of overly diluted.
I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and one trick I swear by is using a large ice cube when stirring. It chills the drink without watering it down too fast.
Flavor Profile
Dubonnet Rouge brings a deep, slightly sweet, and herbal richness, while the gin adds a crisp, botanical kick. The result is a drink that’s smooth yet complex, with just the right amount of bitterness to keep things interesting.
Make It Your Own
Want to experiment? Try these variations:
- Swap the gin for vodka for a milder, smoother base.
- Use an orange twist instead of lemon for a warmer citrus note.
- Add a splash of soda for a lighter, more refreshing version.
Perfect Pairings
The Dubonnet Cocktail shines even brighter when paired with the right foods. Here are some great options:
- Rich cheeses – Brie or blue cheese balance the cocktail’s herbal notes.
- Dark chocolate – The deep, bittersweet flavors complement the drink beautifully.
- Spiced nuts – Their warm, toasty flavors enhance the Dubonnet’s complexity.
I love serving this cocktail with a small plate of dark chocolate and almonds—it’s an effortless yet elegant pairing that always impresses.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Pre-mix a batch for a party—just stir with ice and strain when ready to serve.
- Store Dubonnet Rouge in the fridge after opening to keep its flavors fresh.
- Leftover cocktail? Keep it chilled and give it a quick stir before serving again.
FAQs
Can I make a Dubonnet Cocktail without gin?
Yes! Swap it for vodka for a smoother taste, or soda water for a low-alcohol version.
How do I make it more refreshing?
A splash of soda water lightens it up and adds a nice fizz.
Can I batch this for a party?
Absolutely! Mix in advance, keep it chilled, and just add the garnish before serving.
This cocktail is a timeless classic for a reason—it’s simple, elegant, and endlessly enjoyable. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just unwinding after a long day, it’s a drink that never disappoints.
