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Taste of the Test Kitchen

The Perfect Summer Cocktail

Posted by Charlotte March

Summer is nearly upon us, and there is nothing more satisfying than a light, delicious, and frosty beverage at the end of a long, hot day. While I am a staunch supporter of a muddled herb cocktail, or a well-executed margarita on the rocks with salt, there is nothing simpler than chilled Lillet served with ice and a splash of seltzer, and if you are feeling really energetic, an orange twist. Lillet Blanc is a deliciously fortified wine from the Bordeaux region with hints of honey and a very floral and citrusy aroma.

As luck would it have it,  when last last week's heat wave was causing the AC in the kitchen to malfunction and we were all wilting, a gorgeous picnic basket with a bottle of Lillet Blanc (sporting the new summer label) and darling Lillet trinkets arrived. We promptly wrapped that bottle in a damp towel and placed in the freezer for about 20 minutes (thanks, June Good Things, for the suggestion!) and come quitting time had a delightful, refreshing, and easy cocktail in just moments!

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The lovely basket hints at what's to come!

1 The lovely basket hints at what's to come!

Oh joy! The perfect picnic basket; it has anything you'll ever need, with a cutting board, cheese spreader, napkins, glasses, and Lillet blanc.

2 Oh joy! The perfect picnic basket; it has anything you'll ever need, with a cutting board, cheese spreader, napkins, glasses, and Lillet blanc.

Other Lillet goodies, such as a compact and a recipe book, were included.

3 Other Lillet goodies, such as a compact and a recipe book, were included.

This bottle has the new summer label. We were so inspired we couldn't wait!

4 This bottle has the new summer label. We were so inspired we couldn't wait!

Pour a few ounces of chilled Lillet over ice, top with a splash of seltzer, and garnish with an orange twist. Et voilà!

5 Pour a few ounces of chilled Lillet over ice, top with a splash of seltzer, and garnish with an orange twist. Et voilà!

Comments (2)

  • This is beautiful. Where can you get this? I live in a small, isolated burg...so on line is best info. Thanks

  • Author Comment:

    Ordering alcohol online can be a little tricky because shipping between the states is somewhat complicated due to all the various laws regarding alcohol sales - particularly interstate. You'd be surprised how available Lillet is so check out your local wine and spirits shop.

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