Name: Lillet Tonique
Yield: Makes 1 cocktail
Ingredients: 3 ounces Lillet Blanc; ¼ ounce Tonic Syrup; 3 ounces seltzer, chilled; lemon slice

Why This Recipe Works

Traditionally Lillet is served on its own over ice as an aperitif, but we wanted to create a cocktail with it, one that was playful while still maintaining the aromatized wine's air of sophistication. So we decided to put the quinine back in. And our tasters agreed—we initially tried adding fizz via plain seltzer instead of tonic, but they found this version lacking in flavor and complexity. We ultimately discovered that incorporating ¼ ounce of our Tonic Syrup in addition to the seltzer provided a lovely, balanced mix of citrus, herbal, and floral flavors. To garnish, we simply added a lemon slice, which helped emphasize the citrus notes of the Lillet.

Before You Begin

We prefer to use our homemade Tonic Syrup and seltzer here; however, you can substitute 3 ounces of store-bought tonic water for the syrup and seltzer, if you like.

Instructions

Fill chilled wine glass halfway with ice. Add Lillet and tonic syrup and stir to combine using bar spoon. Add seltzer and, using spoon, gently lift Lillet mixture from bottom of glass to top to combine. Top with additional ice and garnish with lemon slice. Serve.