Lillet

Lillet is a French aperitif wine produced in Podensac, in the Bordeaux region. It is made by blending Bordeaux wines with citrus liqueurs and other aromatics; the exact recipe is a closely guarded trade secret. The resulting drink is typically pale to amber, with dry, citrusy, and floral notes that make it suited to serving as an apéritif or in cocktails.

The brand was founded in 1872 by Paul and Raymond Lillet, wine merchants based in Podensac. The Lillet name comes from the family, and the product was developed to offer a wine-based aperitif blended with fruit liqueurs. Production remains centered around the original site near Bordeaux, and the range has expanded beyond the initial offering over the years.

Today Lillet is sold in several variants. Lillet Blanc is the white style, presenting a pale, fragrant profile; Lillet Rouge is a red-style aperitif with a deeper hue and more pronounced aroma; and Lillet Rosé offers a pink, lighter option. A historical variant, Kina Lillet, contained quinine and was used in some classic cocktails; it was discontinued in the late 20th century and replaced in many uses by Lillet Blanc. The brand is widely used in cocktails and has associations with mid-20th-century bartending culture.

In cocktail culture, Lillet Blanc is a common ingredient in drinks such as the Corpse Reviver #2 and the 20th Century, and it is also enjoyed on its own or over ice with a citrus twist. The beverage is typically served chilled, either neat over ice or as a component in a mixed drink.