Lillet and Tonic – the Perfect Waterproof Summer Drink
I am a lazy person, but when the temperature rises by about 72 degrees, I become even lazier. I also get very panicky if I’m in the heat for too long, which means I need a steady stream of lungs to prepare, but not overly drunk cocktails, to stay calm. Gin and tonic will work a little, but drinking too much gin, no matter how diluted, can cause problems.
All of this suggests that I have become a huge fan of Lillet Blanc and tonic. The strength of the wine aperitif is 17%, that is, less than half a gin, and its fruity character goes very well with a bittersweet tonic. I like mine with a slightly tangled orange slice, but a small handful of raspberries will work too. No mixing vessel required – this baby can be built right into the glass. To make it you will need:
- 1 1/2 oz Lillet Blanc
- Half an orange (or another fruit if you like)
- Really good tonic
Place the orange slice in a glass and stir gently by pressing it four or five times with a wooden spoon. Add Lillet, stir, then add a large ice cube (or a handful of regular ice) and drizzle with tonic. Drink and repeat as needed until you calm down and stop worrying so much about the heat, or at least the thought of impending heat.