French BlondeCocktail recipe
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Reportedly Taylor Swift's favourite cocktail. The story goes that the singer enjoyed a night out with Kansas City Chiefs wives and girlfriends, including Brittany Mahomes, visiting the Rye restaurant in Leawood, Kansas.
The owner Megan Garrelts says the singer ordered a French Blonde and was quoted as saying that it was Taylor's favourite drink. It's a refreshing cocktail that combines gin, St-Germain, Lillet Blanc, and grapefruit juice (with a touch of lemon bitters).
One for the swifties amongst you to try!
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Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
The French Blonde cocktail is a delightful ensemble where the floral notes of St-Germain and the citrus burst of grapefruit juice effortlessly dance around the herbal undertones of gin. Its crisp elegance is grounded by the bittersweet nuance of Lillet Blanc, with lemon bitters adding just enough edge to make it lively without overpowering, creating a refreshing and harmonious sip.
Method
How to make a French Blonde
- Gin 30 ml, St-Germain 22 ml, Lillet Blanc 15 ml, Grapefruit juice 45 ml, Lemon bitters 1 dash
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- Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice
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- Shake well and strain into a coupe glass
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- Garnish with a grapefruit twist, if desired
Power tips
Elevate the French Blonde with these master mixologist tips
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Find out more- When preparing the French Blonde, consider using freshly squeezed grapefruit juice to significantly enhance the cocktail’s freshness and vibrancy. Fresh juice brings a natural sweetness and acidity that pre-packaged options often lack.
- To elevate the floral notes of the cocktail, use a premium gin that has a botanical profile with floral undertones, such as Hendrick's. This will complement the St-Germain and harmonize with the overall flavor profile.
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FAQ's
What occasions would be ideal for serving a French Blonde cocktail?
The French Blonde cocktail, with its refreshing blend of gin, St-Germain, grapefruit juice, and Lillet Blanc, is perfect for a variety of occasions. Its light and invigorating taste make it an excellent choice for summer gatherings or daytime parties. It could also serve as a sophisticated pre-dinner drink during a fine dining experience, thanks to its balanced flavor profile. Additionally, considering its association with Taylor Swift, it might be a fun addition to a themed party for fans. Its versatile and elegant nature means the French Blonde can be a sophisticated yet laid-back option for any celebratory event.
What can I use as a substitute for Lillet Blanc in a French Blonde cocktail?
If you're unable to find Lillet Blanc for your French Blonde cocktail, there are a few viable alternatives you can consider. Cocchi Americano is often recommended as a substitute due to its similar flavor profile and aromatic qualities. Alternatively, a dry or semi-sweet white vermouth could work in a pinch, though it may slightly alter the cocktail's overall taste. It's important to remember that each substitute will impart its unique character to the drink, so the final outcome might differ slightly from the original recipe. Experimenting with these alternatives can even lead to discovering a new twist on this classic cocktail.
Does the French Blonde cocktail have any ties to French culture or history?
While the French Blonde cocktail incorporates French liqueurs such as Lillet Blanc and St-Germain, which add a touch of French sophistication to the drink, it doesn't have a historical or cultural significance directly tied to France. The cocktail embraces elements that are emblematic of French elegance in cocktail crafting, particularly through the use of French spirits. However, its current popularity may be more influenced by contemporary cultural references and the endorsement by celebrities like Taylor Swift, rather than any deep-rooted historical ties to French culture.
What kind of food pairs well with a French Blonde cocktail?
The French Blonde cocktail's light, citrusy, and fresh profile pairs excellently with a variety of foods. It complements seafood dishes wonderfully, such as oysters, shrimp cocktails, or grilled fish, enhancing the flavors without overwhelming them. Cheese platters featuring mild and creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert can also make for a delicious pairing, as they balance the drink's citrusy zing with their rich textures. For those who prefer vegetarian options, asparagus or avocado-based appetizers can harmonize well with the cocktail's crisp and floral notes, making it a versatile companion for a refined dining experience.
How does the alcohol content of the French Blonde compare to other cocktails?
The French Blonde has an alcohol content of 15.5%, which generally places it on the lower end compared to many classic cocktails. Typically, cocktails such as martinis or margaritas can range from 20% to 30% ABV, depending on the mix and the serving size. The relatively lower alcohol content of the French Blonde makes it a refreshing option that can be enjoyed without the intense punch found in stronger cocktails. This moderate level of alcohol becomes ideal for events where guests might prefer to savor their drinks over a longer period. As always, drink responsibly and be mindful of your consumption.
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