Dubonnet Aperitif

Unveiling Dubonnet: A Deep Dive into the Classic French Aperitif

Dubonnet, a name synonymous with the art of the aperitif, boasts a rich heritage dating back to 1846. This fortified wine aperitif, crafted in France, holds a unique place in the world of drinks. At The General Wine, we're inviting you on a journey to explore the depths of Dubonnet's flavour profile, guiding you through its characteristics and offering suggestions to fully appreciate this delightful beverage.

A Look at Dubonnet's Origins

The story of Dubonnet begins with a Parisian wine merchant and chemist, Joseph Dubonnet. In mid-19th century Algeria, French soldiers stationed there craved a palatable alternative to the harsh local wines. Dubonnet, with his knowledge of both wine and botanicals, rose to the challenge. He created a fortified wine base infused with a secret blend of herbs and spices, resulting in the now-famous Dubonnet Rouge.

Unpacking the Flavour Profile

Dubonnet's foundation lies in a blend of red wines, most commonly featuring RubiRed, Rubicabernet, and Merlot grapes. This base is then infused with a carefully guarded selection of botanicals. While the exact recipe remains a secret, some prominent flavour components can be identified.

• Red Wine Fruitiness: The red wine base shines through, offering a foundation of dark berry notes like blackberry, blackcurrant, and plum.
• Herbal Complexity: A distinct layer of herbal character emerges from the botanical infusion. Think hints of rosemary, thyme, and perhaps even a touch of anise.
• Cinchona Bark Bitterness: A subtle bitterness, reminiscent of quinine, adds complexity and balances the sweetness.
• Subdued Sweetness: Dubonnet is gently sweetened with cane sugar, creating a balanced profile that's neither cloying nor overly dry.

The interplay of these elements creates a unique and intriguing flavour experience. The initial sip offers a burst of red fruitiness, followed by the gentle warmth of the alcohol and the intriguing interplay of herbs and spices. The subtle bitterness lingers on the finish, cleansing the palate and inviting another sip.

The Art of Serving Dubonnet

As a classic aperitif, Dubonnet is traditionally enjoyed before a meal to stimulate the appetite. Its refreshing and complex character primes the palate for the culinary delights to come. Here are some ideal ways to savour Dubonnet:

• Neat:  For the purists, Dubonnet can be enjoyed chilled, neat (without ice). Served in a small coupe glass, this allows the full spectrum of flavours to be appreciated.
• On the Rocks: A simple yet effective way to enjoy Dubonnet is served over ice in an old-fashioned glass. The dilution from the ice tones down the sweetness and alcohol content, making it a refreshing option.
• The Dubonnet Cocktail:  For a taste of history, recreate the Queen Mother's favourite tipple – the Dubonnet Cocktail. Combine equal parts Dubonnet and gin in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir gently and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist for an extra touch of sophistication.

Pairing Suggestions

Dubonnet's versatility extends beyond the pre-dinner aperitif.  Here are some food pairings to consider:

• Cheese:  Dubonnet complements a variety of cheeses beautifully. Opt for creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert, or semi-hard cheeses like Gruyère or Comté. The sweetness in Dubonnet cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a delightful harmony.
• Charcuterie:  Cured meats like prosciutto, salami, or chorizo pair exceptionally well with Dubonnet. The savoury notes of the charcuterie complement the herbal character of the aperitif.
• Tapas:  Let your creativity flow with a selection of Spanish tapas. The smoky notes of chorizo, the brininess of olives, and the creaminess of Manchego cheese all create a delightful counterpoint to Dubonnet's flavour profile.
• Spicy Food:  The touch of bitterness in Dubonnet acts as a soothing counterpoint to spicy dishes. Enjoy it alongside Thai curries, Indian curries, or Mexican food.

In Conclusion

Dubonnet, with its rich history and intriguing flavour profile, offers a unique way to elevate your drinking experience.  At The General Wine, we invite you to explore the world of Dubonnet and discover its delightful charm. So, raise a glass, savour the complex flavours, and let Dubonnet transport you to the art of the French aperitif.