Forktionary
Alcoholic Beverage | Gluten Free Diet (check specific brands) Vegan Diet (check fining agents)

Lillet Blanc

N/A (Wine-based aperitif) Allergens: Sulfites
lillet blanc

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Vitaceae (base wine)
  • Primary Cuisine French
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Grapes, Citrus fruits, Cinchona bark

The Forktionary Angle

"The classic French aperitif, Lillet Blanc brings elegance and subtle complexity to any occasion."

Definition

A French wine-based aperitif, a blend of 85% Bordeaux wines and 15% citrus liqueurs, aged in oak.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Bitter (subtle), Citrus, Honey, Floral, Winey
TextureSmooth, Medium-bodied
AromaOrange blossom, Honey, Mint, Exotic fruits, Cinchona
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Original Recipe Year

1872

Primary Grape Varietals

Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc

Typical ABV

17%

Nutrition Facts

Per 3 fl oz (90ml)
Calories150 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0 g
Total Carbohydrate16 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars16 g
Calcium10 mg
Iron0.1 mg
Potassium70 mg

Chef’s Secret

Lillet Blanc makes an elegant addition to fruit tarts or glazes, imparting a subtle citrus and honeyed wine complexity.

Substitutions

Best Match

Dry Vermouth

1:1

Closest widely available substitute for texture and wine base, but less sweet and floral; will require slight sugar adjustment.

Cocchi Americano

1:1

A very close Italian aperitif with similar bitter, citrus, and wine notes; excellent direct substitute.

Sweet White Vermouth

1:1

More herbaceous than Lillet, but offers a sweet, fortified wine base for many cocktails.

White Port + Orange Liqueur

1:1 white port + 1/4 part orange liqueur

A homemade blend to approximate the fortified wine and citrus notes, good for specific cocktails.

Buying Guide

Store in the refrigerator after opening to preserve its delicate flavors. Enjoy chilled as an aperitif or in cocktails.

Flavor Pairings

Gin Vodka Champagne Citrus Tonic Water Olives Light Cheeses Melon