The French Blonde is an elegant and refreshing cocktail that blends the floral notes of Lillet Blanc and St-Germain with the citrusy zing of grapefruit juice. This light, sophisticated drink is perfect for a summer soirée.
Ingredients:
2 oz Lillet Blanc
1 oz Bombay Sapphire Gin
½ oz St-Germain (elderflower liqueur)
2 oz Simply Grapefruit Juice
Lavender sprigs for garnish
Ice cubes
How to Make a French Blonde:
Mix the Ingredients: Combine Lillet Blanc, gin, St-Germain, and grapefruit juice in a shaker tin.
Shake Well: Add ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
Strain and Serve: Fine strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
Garnish: Garnish with lavender sprigs.
Additional Info:
The French Blonde is versatile and can be tailored to your taste. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of St-Germain or adding a dash of simple syrup.
How to Make a Batch:
To make a batch, multiply each ingredient by the number of servings needed and mix in a large pitcher. Serve in individual glasses over ice.
Alternative Spirits for Different Budgets:
Budget-Friendly: Use a well-priced gin such as Beefeater. Mid-Range: Opt for a mid-tier gin like Hendrick’s. Premium: For a top-shelf experience, use The Botanist Islay Dry Gin.
Expert Tips:
Use fresh grapefruit juice for the best flavor.
Chill your glass in the freezer before pouring for an extra-cold cocktail.
Experiment with different garnishes like a grapefruit twist or edible flowers.
Unique Twists or Add-Ons:
Add a splash of tonic water for a sparkling version.
Infuse your gin with rosemary for a herbal twist.
Serve over a large ice cube for a more dramatic presentation.
Variations:
French Blonde Royale: Top with a splash of champagne for a sparkling version.
Ginger Blonde: Add a dash of ginger syrup for a spicy kick.
Citrus Blonde: Substitute grapefruit juice with orange juice for a sweeter flavor.
Related Recipes (You May Also Like):
Aperol Spritz
Elderflower Collins
Negroni Bianco
Reviews/Comments Section:
“Such a light and refreshing drink! Perfect for summer parties.” – Jessica
“The lavender garnish adds a nice touch. Loved it!” – Matt
“Tried the Ginger Blonde variation, and it was a hit at my last dinner party.” – Olivia
Feel free to share your variations and experiences in the comments below!