Dubonnet Rouge: The Queen's Favorite French Aperitif

BY: Pierre Melange

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published May 6, 2024

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Dubonnet Rouge: The Queen's Favorite French Aperitif

From Parisian medicine to royal favorite, discover how this French wine-based aperitif conquered palates from the French Legion to the British Crown.

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The quintessential French aperitif that bridged medicinal origins with royal approval

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The Origins and Early History of Dubonnet

Dubonnet was created in 1846 by Joseph Dubonnet, a Parisian wine merchant and chemist. The original purpose was to make quinine more palatable for the French Foreign Legion fighting in North Africa.

The recipe combines fortified wine, herbs, spices, and quinine, creating a distinctive aperitif that helped combat malaria while pleasing the palate. The brand gained prominence during the 1880s through innovative art nouveau posters by Jules Chéret.

The success led to rapid expansion, with Dubonnet becoming France's leading aperitif by the turn of the century.

Historical Development

By the 1920s, Dubonnet had gained international recognition, particularly among the British aristocracy. Queen Elizabeth II and the Queen Mother were noted enthusiasts, making it their preferred aperitif.

The brand was acquired by Pernod Ricard in 1976, bringing modernization while maintaining the original recipe's character.

Global Influence

Dubonnet's influence extends beyond France, particularly in Britain where it holds a Royal Warrant. Its popularity surged in the United States during the mid-20th century, becoming a key ingredient in classic cocktails.

The brand's iconic advertising campaigns, featuring the slogan 'Dubo, Dubon, Dubonnet', created by Cassandre in 1932, remain influential in advertising history.

Signature Cocktails

Dubonnet Rouge has been the foundation of several classic cocktails.

  • Dubonnet Cocktail

    The royal favorite combining Dubonnet Rouge with Gin, as preferred by Queen Elizabeth II

  • Arnaud's Special

    A New Orleans creation mixing Dubonnet Rouge with Scotch Whisky and Orange Bitters

  • Zaza

    Classic combination of Dubonnet Rouge and Dry Gin with a twist of Orange

  • Opera

    Sophisticated blend of Dubonnet Rouge, Gin, and crème de mandarine

List of recipes with Dubonnet Rouge

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Dubonnet in Modern Times

Today, Dubonnet continues its legacy under Pernod Ricard's stewardship. The brand has maintained its position in the premium aperitif category while adapting to modern tastes.

Recent years have seen renewed interest from craft cocktail bars and mixologists, rediscovering classic recipes and creating contemporary interpretations. The brand maintains its Royal Warrant, symbolizing its enduring prestige.

Future expectations...

Dubonnet Rouge endures as a symbol of French aperitif culture, beloved by royalty and mixologists alike.

Frequent questions on Dubonnet Rouge

  • What kind of spirit is Dubonnet Rouge?

    Dubonnet Rouge is an aromatized wine from France made with a blend of red wine, herbs, spices, and quinine.

  • What does Dubonnet Rouge taste like?

    Dubonnet Rouge has a rich, slightly sweet taste with notes of dark fruits, spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a subtle bitterness from quinine.

  • How should Dubonnet Rouge be served?

    Dubonnet Rouge is traditionally served chilled on its own or over ice, often with a slice of lemon or orange. It’s also used in classic cocktails like the Dubonnet Cocktail.

  • When should Dubonnet Rouge be served?

    Dubonnet Rouge is ideal as an aperitif before meals or as a refreshing accompaniment to light snacks and appetizers.

  • Should Dubonnet Rouge be refrigerated?

    Yes, once opened, Dubonnet Rouge should be refrigerated to maintain its quality and freshness.

  • What are the ingredients in Dubonnet Rouge?

    Dubonnet Rouge is made from red wine infused with herbs, spices, and quinine, sweetened slightly to balance the flavors.

  • How long does an opened bottle of Dubonnet Rouge last?

    An opened bottle of Dubonnet Rouge can last for 1–2 months if stored in the refrigerator.

  • Is Dubonnet Rouge a digestif?

    Dubonnet Rouge is not traditionally a digestif but can be enjoyed after meals due to its balanced sweetness and herbal notes.

  • Why is Dubonnet Rouge significant in French culture?

    Dubonnet Rouge has a rich history in France, known as a classic aperitif that represents the French tradition of enjoying fine drinks before meals.