How Delish Is This?

We Huffingtons do enjoy a libation now and again and when we come across one we really love, we feel it necessary to share.

Along with hot summer days, afternoon thunderstorms and the heady scent of gardenias, one of our favorite guilty pleasures is the delicious, and sadly, habit-forming Lillet.

If you haven’t experienced the sweet but tangy flavor of this French wine, do put it on your list. You’ll feel instantly transported to the madly glamorous Cote d’Azur of yesteryear.

The Lillet Frères (Paul and Raymond) are responsible for the creation of this lovely little aperitif, which hails from a little spot in Bordeaux and dates back to 1872. It’s a heady blend of 85% wine, herbs and citrus liqueurs made from a variety of oranges and then matured in oak casks.

Casks of Lillet, aging to perfection.

We found this description of Lillet from a real oenophile: “Golden color, shimmery; floral nose, honey, candied orange, pine resin, lime, fresh mint; distinct taste, generous, intense, aromatic, long.”

Lillet: the classic Bordelais aperitif

This sweet but tangy concoction has been going strong for more than 100 years – in fact, it’s said that the Duchess of Windsor never went anywhere without her personal bottle of Lillet. In the 60’s, it was the cocktail of choice for New York socialites frequenting the ever-chic 21 Club.

It’s even made it to Hollywood: in the movie, Hannibal, Hannibal Lecter drinks "Lillet and a slice of orange over ice"; he later serves the same drink to Clarice Starling. James Bond loves it, too, ordering it in both Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace. Martha Stewart likes hers with a little cucumber and tarragon: click here for her recipes. That’s so Martha.

Bond. James Bond.

Okay, so what do you do with it? We like it a nice thin-lipped crystal wine glass (preferably a Bordeaux glass), over ice (yes, ice) a splash of soda (yes, soda and we know you traditionalists will cringe) and a nice slice of orange. It’s heavenly on a summer’s evening when perhaps a little salade nicoise is awaiting you or perhaps a savory tomato tarte. Wherever, whenever and with whatever you decide to nibble on while sipping, Lillet is nectar of the soul.

Not a Bordeaux glass, but it will do…

Lillet comes in two variations: blanc et rouge.

We hope you take our advice and enjoy a glass of Lillet next time you’re dining al fresco on a warm summer’s eve. You will not be disappointed!

What are some of your favorite summertime cocktails?

Tata!

M.