The Dubonnet Cocktail

Sidecar/New Orleans Sours & Riffs • December 16, 2025

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A photo of the Scarlet Swirl cocktail containing Beefeater London Dry Gin, Dubonnet Rouge, Freshly squeezed lemon juice in a Old-Fashioned.

Curiada Ingredients

1.50 fl oz Beefeater London Dry Gin or alternative
1.50 fl oz Dubonnet Rouge or alternative

Other Ingredients

0.25 fl oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice

Directions

Add ice to mixing glass
Add all ingredients to mixing glass
Stir well with bar spoon
Fill old-fashioned glass with fresh ice
Strain mixture into ice-filled old-fashioned glass
Express lemon zest twist over drink and drop into glass

Cocktail Description

The The Dubonnet Cocktail is what happens when a classic martini meets a sultry sunset—elegant, approachable, and impossible to forget.

This gorgeous ruby-hued cocktail balances the botanical punch of Beefeater gin with the wine-forward complexity of Lillet Rouge, while fresh lemon juice adds just enough brightness to keep everything lively. The straightforward stirring method makes this an easy cocktail to prepare, even for novice home bartenders, though the sophisticated flavor profile suggests otherwise. Perfect for cocktail hour or as a pre-dinner aperitif, the The Dubonnet Cocktail feels equally at home at casual gatherings or more formal occasions. Try serving this alongside charcuterie, soft cheeses, or light appetizers where its herbal and wine-like qualities can complement rather than overwhelm. The drink's versatility extends to seasons as well—refreshing enough for summer evenings yet substantial enough for cooler months when deeper flavors beckon.