The Dubonnet cocktail is a sweet cocktail made of gin and a fortified wine (also called Dunnobet rouge), and dates back to the 19th century. The drink is usually served as an aperitif. As to the origin of the cocktail, they say that Joseph Dubonnet, a Parisian pharmacist, was trying to find cure for malaria and in 1846 created cinchona wine. The drink turned out to be very bitter, so the young pharmacist supplemented it with essences of various herbs and spicy tinctures. Initially, it was used for its medicinal purpose – it was taken by infected soldiers. One day Madame Dubonnet served vermouth at a home reception as an aperitif, and the guests liked the new drink. This cocktail later became known as a Dubonnet.
Equipment
- Cocktail glass
Ingredients
- 45 ml Dubonnet Rouge
- 45 ml gin
- lemon wedge (to garnish)
Instructions
- Fill a mixer with ice, and pour both the Dubonnet and gin.
- Stir well until chilled.
- Strain the liquid into a cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon wedge.
FAQ
What are the best gin cocktails?
If you like a gin cocktail like this classic Dubonnet we also have a roundup of the 10 best gin cocktails, it’s not official, but we think you’ll find the list quite inspiring!
What is an aperitif?
The word Aperitif was originally used by the French to refer to an alcoholic drink to be consumed before dinner. Some popular examples of an aperitif are; the French Martini, Vesper Martini, Negroni, Aperol Spritz or the Cardinale cocktail.
