Lillet Spritz: A Summer Classic Served Two Ways
Lillet Spritz: A classic summer cocktail.
How to Make a Lillet Spritz
When I lived in France I was first introduced to Lillet Blanc (pronounced Lee-Lay), the French aromatized wine aperitif that is a delicious blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon grapes, along with citrus liqueurs and more secrets.
There are three types of Lillet: Lillet Blanc, Lillet Rose and Lillet Rouge. For the classic Lillet Spritz, I use Lillet Blanc (17% ABV), which is the most readily available in my area as well.
No matter how you prefer to enjoy Lillet, if you have never tried it you are in for a treat.
In the summertime, there's no better way to enjoy the magic of Lillet than in a classic Lillet Spritz. I serve Lillet Spritz's poolside at On The Rocks Poolside Bar, the backyard sister bar to the Grand One Lounge. You can think of the Lillet Spritz as a French variation of the Aperol Spritz.
There are many ways to make a Lillet Spritz, but I prefer the classic approach, which I make in one of two ways — guest's choice.
Lillet Spritz served poolside.
The Classic Lillet Spritz
The classic Lillet Spritz is simplicity at its best. Let the complex flavors of Lillet shine through with this easy drinking cocktail.
Lillet Spritz Ingredients
2-1/2 oz Lillet
3-1/2 oz club soda or sparkling water
1/2 of a fresh cut orange slice
Place three ice cubes in a wine glass and add 2-1/2 ounces of Lillet. Add 1/2 of an orange slice (twist for more orange flavor) and top with 3-1/2 ounces of club soda or your favorite sparkling water.
This is a light and super enjoyable cocktail for any sunny summer afternoon in your backyard (or anytime anywhere really).
Sparkling Lillet Spritz
For a Lillet Spritz with a little more effervescence, many of my guests prefer the Sparkling Lillet Spritz.
The Sparkling Lillet Spritz is the same as the classic original, but with the addition of 2 ounces of your favorite sparkling wine, be it champagne, prosecco or cava. Everything works — even pink champagne if you prefer a sweeter option.
Sparkling Lillet Spritz Ingredients
2-1/2 oz Lillet
2 oz your favorite sparkling wine
3-1/2 oz club soda or sparkling water
1/2 of a fresh cut orange slice
Place three ice cubes in a wine glass and add 2.5 ounces of Lillet and 2 ounces of your favorite sparkling wine. Add half of an orange slice (twist for more orange flavor) and top with 3-1/2 ounces of club soda or your favorite sparkling water.
Sparkling Lillet Spritz with orange.
Enjoy Lillet Your Way
As I noted above, there are many variations of the Lillet Spritz, so have some fun experimenting if you want to try something a little different.
Some people use gin instead of sparkling wine as a second ingredient, while others use lemon or lime slices instead of orange. Since Lillet has a citrus flavor profile, any citrus fruit will work well. St. Germain Elderflower liqueur would also make a great alternative to gin.
By Mike Belobradic
Wine, Spirits and Beer Virtuoso
Grand One Lounge