Drinks After Dark

Dubonnet makes a comeback

by Colleen Coplick on September 2nd, 2008

The classic cocktails, you know, the ones from the 50’s and earlier, are making a comeback in today’s lounges and bars, and Dubonnet is one of those classic ingredients.

Dubonnet, like Absinthe, is one of those liquids developed in the mid-1800’s (1846 to be exact) to help make quinine more palatable for the soldiers battling malaria in North Africa (wow, apparently quinine is a horrid-tasting substance!).

Created by Parisian chemist/wine merchant, Joseph Dubonnet, Dubonnet’s mix of fortified wine and proprietary blend of herbs, spices and peels has earned it legendary status in the world of sophisticated drinks. (image source: Heaven-Hill Distillery)

There are several ways to enjoy Dubonnet, but the one that we discovered this weekend that caused one guest to exclaim “I could drink this like juice! It’s so good!” is the Dubonnet Cosmopolitan. A classic twist on a trendy drink, this cocktail goes down smoothly, is a lovely rosy colour, and seems to be enjoyed by several different palates.

To make a Dubonnet Cosmopolitan:

1 oz Dubonnet
1 oz Finlandia Vodka
1 oz Triple Sec
Cranberry Juice
Lime Juice
Lime for garnish

Put all ingredients, except the lime for garnish in a cocktail shaker with ice. Give it a good shake, and pour into champagne glasses or martini glasses and garnish! (image source: me)

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POSTED IN: Cocktails, Dubonnet, Recipes, Summer Drinks, Trends, Vodka