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Classic cocktails never truly go out of style, and one of the most refined yet quietly understated is the Gin & Dubonnet. With its deep ruby hue, herbal notes, and smooth, bittersweet complexity, this aperitif has been enjoyed for over a century—but it gained its most famous fan in none other than Queen Elizabeth II, who reportedly enjoyed one daily before lunch.
Elegant, easy to mix, and steeped in history, the Gin & Dubonnet is a drink that deserves a place in your repertoire.
What Is Dubonnet?
Dubonnet (pronounced doo-bon-NAY) is a French aromatized wine, similar to vermouth, originally created in 1846 by chemist Joseph Dubonnet. It was designed to make quinine—used to ward off malaria—more palatable to French Foreign Legionnaires. The result? A fortified wine infused with herbs, spices, and a touch of quinine, giving it a uniquely bittersweet character.
Think of Dubonnet as a richer, spicier cousin to sweet vermouth, with notes of:
- Dark berries
- Orange peel
- Herbs and spice
- A subtle medicinal bitterness
What Is a Gin & Dubonnet?
At its heart, the Gin & Dubonnet is a two-ingredient cocktail made with:
- Gin – Your choice of a dry, botanical-forward spirit
- Dubonnet Rouge – The red (and most common) version of Dubonnet
The classic ratio is 1:1, though many prefer 1 part gin to 2 parts Dubonnet for a softer, more rounded profile.
Optional additions:
- A twist of lemon or orange peel
- A dash of bitters (especially orange or Angostura)
- Served neat, on the rocks, or even chilled and stirred
A Royal Favorite
This cocktail may have stayed a quiet European aperitif if not for the British monarchy. Both Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, and Queen Elizabeth II were known devotees of the Gin & Dubonnet.
The Queen’s preferred version? Reportedly:
- 2 parts Dubonnet
- 1 part gin
- Garnished with a slice of lemon
- Served over ice, before lunch
It became something of a royal ritual, symbolizing old-school refinement and understated elegance.
How to Make a Classic Gin & Dubonnet
Ingredients:
- 45 ml (1.5 oz) Dubonnet Rouge
- 30 ml (1 oz) London dry gin
- Ice
- Lemon twist (or orange slice) for garnish
Instructions:
- Add gin and Dubonnet to a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir gently until chilled.
- Strain into a coupe glass or pour over fresh ice in a rocks glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or orange slice.
For a lighter take, top with soda water or tonic and serve in a highball.
Food Pairings
As an aperitif, the Gin & Dubonnet pairs beautifully with:
- Olives and roasted nuts
- Charcuterie or pâté
- Cheese boards, especially aged cheddar or blue cheese
- Canapés and smoked salmon
Its herbal complexity also makes it a wonderful companion to autumn and winter flavors.
Why It’s Worth Revisiting
The Gin & Dubonnet isn’t just a relic of a bygone era—it’s a sophisticated, low-effort cocktail perfect for modern tastes. With lower alcohol than many spirits-based drinks, it’s ideal for daytime sipping, dinner parties, or when you want something a little different from the usual gin and tonic.
Plus, Dubonnet itself is making a quiet comeback thanks to the craft cocktail movement and a renewed interest in vintage spirits and aperitif culture.
Final Thoughts
The Gin & Dubonnet may not shout for attention, but that’s exactly its charm. It’s elegant, intriguing, and refreshingly simple—a cocktail that speaks of garden parties, velvet lounges, and royal traditions.
So next time you’re in the mood for something classic with a twist of history, skip the martini and pour yourself a Gin & Dubonnet. Long live the queen… of cocktails.
