‍

Last week my friend, Cheryl, mentioned how much she loves a French Blonde cocktail and it dawned on me that I had never actually made this elegant drink myself!

‍

Which is a darn shame because I love, love, loooooove absolutely every element in this refreshing cocktail. It's light. It's fresh. It's pretty. And now I'm mad at myself for missing out on enjoying this deliciousness at home for far too long!

‍

So please allow me to introduce you to my latest obsession and one of my new favorite recipes: the French Blonde. In this tipple, Botanical Gin and floral Elderflower Liqueur intertwine with elegant Lillet Blanc to create THE perfect drink!

‍

This delicious cocktail is the ultimate companion for sunny days by the pool or rooftop soirées with friends....or whenever you simply fancy a bit of happiness in your glass!

‍

‍

Skip to Section

What is a French Blonde Cocktail?

French Blonde Cocktail History

Ingredients for a French Blonde Cocktail

How to Make a French Blonde Cocktail with Gin

Equipment Needed

When to Drink a French Blonde Cocktail

French Blonde Cocktail Variations

Other Grapefruit and French-Inspired Cocktails to Try

Frequently Asked Questions

‍

‍

The French Blonde Cocktail: What Is It?

The classic French Blonde cocktail is an elegant drink that harmoniously blends Gin, Lillet Blanc, Elderflower Liqueur, grapefruit juice, and lemon bitters. This refreshing libation offers a beautiful balance of botanical, citrus, and floral notes, making it the perfect choice for those who crave a taste of French elegance with a modern twist.

‍

The French Blonde Cocktail History

The history of the French Blonde Cocktail with Gin is a bit murky, and there are a few different stories swirling around about who created it.

‍

One story about the French Blonde's origin is that it was created in the 1920s by a Parisian bartender. The bartender is said to have been inspired by the popular Gin and lemon cocktail known as the French 75 and wanted to create a cocktail that was similar but a bit more feminine. He named his new creation the French Blonde because its golden color resembled the blonde hair of a French woman.

‍

Another story about the history of the French Blonde cocktail is that in the 1950s, a professional bartender in New York City created the original recipe. He, too, was inspired by the popularity of the French 75 but wanted to add a modern twist to it. His addition of Elderflower Liqueur gave it a delicate floral flavor, and the new cocktail became an instant hit in the Big Apple before eventually spreading to other parts of the world.

‍

Although there's no clear documentation of who created this drink and when, most agree that it emerged as a contemporary twist on a classic cocktail recipe, drawing inspiration from French flavors and sophistication.

‍

‍

The French Blonde Cocktail Ingredients

The allure of this French Blonde drink lies not only in its elegant presentation but also in the carefully selected ingredients that create its distinctive flavor profile. For this cocktail you’ll need:

• DRY GIN: As the base spirit of the French Blonde cocktail, dry Gin adds depth and complexity. For this drink, however, I recommend using a Gin that isn’t overly botanical. My go-to is Beefeater Gin, but Plymouth Gin and Fords Gin are nice options as well.
• LILLET BLANC: Lillet Blanc, a French apéritif wine, plays a crucial role in this French Blonde Martini by offering a subtly sweet and aromatic element that enhances the overall flavor. While the classic recipe calls for Lillet Blanc, you can certainly experiment with Lillet Rosé and Lillet Rouge as well!
• ELDERFLOWER LIQUEUR: Elderflower Liqueur adds a beautiful floral element to the French Blonde cocktail. St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur is my favorite, but Drillaud Elderflower Liqueur is another readily available option.
• GRAPEFRUIT JUICE: Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice infuses this cocktail with vibrant citrus flavors and a refreshing tang. I prefer mine with ruby red or pink grapefruit juice (which has been dubbed the “Redheaded French Blonde Cocktail” due to its beautiful pink color), but you can use whatever juice suits your fancy!
• LEMON BITTERS: Lemon bitters is an essential component in the French Blonde cocktail as its citrusy, slightly bitter notes help to round out the other flavors.

‍

Each of these carefully chosen yet simple ingredients contributes to the overall character of the French Blonde cocktail. The herbal notes of Gin form the sturdy backbone, while Lillet Blanc, Elderflower Liqueur, grapefruit juice, and lemon bitters add layers of flavor and complexity.

‍

‍

How to Make a French Blonde Cocktail with Gin

You can enjoy this refreshing libation in the comfort of your own home with just a few simple steps:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add 1 ounce Gin, 2 ounces Lillet Blanc, ½ ounce St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, 4 ounces grapefruit juice, and a few dashes lemon bitters to the ice-filled cocktail shaker.
3. Shake vigorously to combine the flavors and chill the cocktail.
4. Strain the contents of the shaker into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. For an added touch of visual appeal, garnish the cocktail with a lemon twist or thin lemon slices. You can also add some extra aromatics by garnishing it with a sprig of rosemary or thyme as well!

‍

Whether you're seeking a refreshing apéritif or a sophisticated drink to serve at a special event, the French Blonde Martini is a perfect choice. The delightful combination of flavors in this simple cocktail embodies the essence of French elegance and is a great way to a touch of joie de vivre to any occasion!

‍

‍

Equipment Needed to Make This French Blonde Cocktail Recipe

To create a classic French Blonde cocktail, having the right tools at your disposal can be super helpful. Here’s the equipment I recommend:

• COCKTAIL SHAKER: Having a dependable cocktail shaker will help you mix your French Blonde to perfection. Popular options include a three-piece Dublin shaker or a two-piece Boston shaker (my personal favorite).
• JIGGER: Achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your French Blonde relies on accurate measurements. I prefer a Japanese jigger, but a mini liquid measuring cup or measuring spoons make excellent alternatives.
• CITRUS JUICER: Fresh grapefruit juice is essential for capturing the vibrant flavor of this French Blonde drink. For smaller batches, a reliable hand juicer or a 2-in-1 citrus juicer is ideal, while an electric citrus juicer becomes invaluable for larger gatherings, making the juicing process a breeze.
• STRAINER: To achieve a perfectly smooth cocktail, I recommend double straining it through both a Hawthorne strainer and a fine-mesh sieve.
• COUPE GLASS OR MARTINI GLASS: Selecting the right glassware is a fun part of choosing how to present your French Blonde. Personally, I adore the sophisticated feel of these Nick & Nora glasses, but I also have my eye on these pink coupe glasses and these fun Martini glasses. You can also serve this drink in a Champagne glass or in tall glasses with ice if you prefer!
• GARNISH TOOLS: While completely optional, having tools for garnishing can help you add a refined finishing touch to your cocktail presentation. I recommend a sharp paring knife for slicing citrus and a channel knife for creating beautiful citrus twists.

‍

While not strictly necessary, having the right tools can greatly enhance your cocktail-making experience and help you achieve professional-level results. However, if you don't have special equipment on hand, improvise with what you have at home. For instance, a mason jar can serve as a makeshift cocktail shaker, and you can use a regular kitchen sieve in place of a dedicated cocktail strainer!

‍

‍

When to Drink a French Blonde Cocktail

The French Blonde cocktail is a versatile libation you can enjoy on any occasion. Whether you're seeking a refreshing pre-dinner drink, a sophisticated tipple to accompany a special meal, or a festive sipper for social gatherings, the French Blonde is sure to please. Here are a few suggestions of when to indulge in this elegant and flavorful concoction:

• PRE-DINNER APÉRITIF: The light and refreshing nature of the French Blonde cocktail makes it an ideal choice to stimulate the appetite and set the tone for a memorable dining experience.
• OUTDOOR GATHERINGS: With its vibrant citrus notes and refreshing profile, the French Blonde is well-suited for warm weather occasions. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, a garden party, or lounging by the pool, this cocktail will cool you off and keep you refreshed.
• COCKTAIL HOUR OR HAPPY HOUR: The French Blonde Martini makes an excellent addition to any cocktail hour or happy hour. Its zippy flavors and easy-drinking nature provide a welcomed escape from the demands of the day.
• HOLIDAY PARTIES: Thanks to its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation, the French Blonde also makes the perfect holiday drink recipe. This delicious tipple is a great drink to serve as a signature cocktail to get you feeling festive!

‍

Remember, the appeal of the French Blonde cocktail lies in its versatility. So, the next time you're contemplating the perfect moment to sip on a French Blonde or the right food to pair it with, choose an occasion that calls for a touch of sophistication, celebration, or simply a moment to savor the beauty of life!

‍

‍

The French Blonde Cocktail Variations

While this French Blonde Cocktail recipe is perfect as it is, you can also customize it to your liking. Here are a few creative variations to explore:

• FRENCH BLONDE COCKTAIL WITH VODKA: If you aren't a fan of Gin, Vodka makes an excellent substitute. Because it is more neutral in flavor, a few ounces Vodka does change the flavor profile of this French Blonde drink. However, it's equally delicious in a different way!
• FRENCH BLONDE COCKTAIL WITH CHAMBORD: Adding a splash of Chambord (or another Raspberry Liqueur) gives this French Blonde cocktail drink recipe a vibrant red color. It also adds a touch of sweetness that both balances the tart grapefruit juice and complements the floral Elderflower Liqueur.
• FRENCH BLONDE COCKTAIL WITH BOURBON: This variation on the French Blonde cocktail swaps out the Gin for Bourbon, which gives it a deeper flavor and a bit of a kick. I absolutely love Bourbon mixed with both sweet and tart flavors, so I think it works beautifully in this drink!
• FRENCH BLONDE COCKTAIL WITH PROSECCO: If you ask me, a touch of bubbles never hurt anything! Adding a splash of Prosecco or sparkling wine makes this drink a little bit fizzy and a whole lot festive.
• FRENCH BLONDE COCKATIL WITH CAMPARI: For an orange twist, add a little Campari to your French Blonde Martini. This gives it a little bitterness, which balances out the sweetness of the Lillet Blanc and Elderflower Liqueur. Plus, the fruity notes in citrus liqueurs like Campari are a match made in heaven with the citrus flavors in this drink!

‍

Remember, these variations are just a starting point for your own creative exploration. No matter how you choose to take it to the next level, your French Blonde drink is sure to please!

‍

‍

Other Grapefruit and French-Inspired Drinks

If you like this classic French Blonde cocktail with Gin, you're in luck! Here are a few more tasty grapefruit and French-inspired tipples for you to try:

• GRAPEFRUIT GIMLET: a tangy variation of the classic cocktail that brings together Gin, fresh grapefruit juice, and a hint of sweetness
• SPICED CRANBERRY FRENCH 75: a festive and flavorful twist on a French 75 featuring the addition of spiced cranberry syrup
• HUGO SPRITZ: an invigorating cocktail that blends sparkling wine and Elderflower Liqueur with fresh mint and soda water
• TANGO COCKTAIL: a zesty Gin-based libation that showcases Passion Fruit Liqueur and grapefruit
• LILLET SPRITZ: a light and effervescent cocktail that balances the botanical notes of Gin with the delicate flavors of Lillet Blanc
• WINTER IN IRAN: a Bourbon-based cocktail that deliciously blends together grapefruit, pomegranate, and bitters
• FRENCH GIMLET: a sophisticated twist on the classic cocktail that brings together Gin, Elderflower Liqueur, and a touch of lime

‍

‍

FAQs About this French Blonde Cocktail Recipe

Whether you're curious about the signature drinks of France, seeking recommendations for French themed cocktails, or interested in exploring the country's diverse libations, I’ve got you covered. Read on to find answers to frequently asked questions about the flavors and traditions that make French beverages so renowned.

‍

What is a good French cocktail?

France is known for many delicious drinks, but a few notable options include:

• FRENCH 75: Perfect for celebratory occasions or as a delightful apéritif, this classic cocktail combines Gin, lemon juice, sugar, and Champagne.
• SIDECAR: The Sidecar is a timeless cocktail made with Cognac or Brandy, Orange Liqueur, and lemon juice.
• KIR ROYALE: Building upon the traditional Kir, the Kir Royale replaces still white wine with Champagne, adding an extra touch of luxury.
• BOULEVARDIER: A mouthwatering cocktail that combines Bourbon or Rye Whiskey, Sweet Vermouth, and Campari, resulting in a robust and bitter-sweet drink with depth and sophistication.
• CHAMPS-ÉLYSÉES: This sophisticated cocktail features Cognac, Green Chartreuse, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and a dash of bitters. It offers a complex and herbal flavor profile with a citrusy twist.

‍

What 2 Ingredient Cocktail is from France?

There are several well-known 2-ingredient cocktails from France. One of the most popular is the French Connection, which is made with equal parts Cognac and Amaretto. It is a sweet and boozy drink often served after dinner as a digestif.

‍

Another popular 2-ingredient cocktail from France is The Kir, a classic French apéritif made by combining Crème de Cassis with dry white wine. The Kir Royale is the sparkling version of The Kir, which calls for sparkling wine instead of dry white wine. (This version is most popular in the United States.)

‍

‍

What cocktail is France famous for?

There are a number of classic French cocktails that the country is famous for, but one tipple it is particularly well-known for is the French 75. The French 75 is a personal favorite of mine, which combines Gin, lemon juice, sugar, and Champagne or sparkling wine.

‍

Another one of the most famous classic French cocktails is the iconic Mimosa. The Mimosa is a popular brunch cocktail that blends Champagne (or sparkling wine) with freshly squeezed orange juice.

‍

What are 10 famous French drinks?

France is renowned for its rich culinary traditions, and its beverages are no exception. From sparkling wines to iconic spirits and liqueurs, French drinks have garnered international acclaim. Here are 10 of the country’s most popular alcoholic beverages:

• Champagne
• Absinthe
• Cognac
• Armagnac
• Cointreau
• Bénédictine
• Pastis
• Chartreuse
• ‍Calvados
• Lillet

‍

What is the national drink of France?

The national drink of France is Pastis, an anise-flavored liqueur typically served diluted with water. Although enjoyed throughout the country, Pastis is especially popular in the south of France.

‍

Is the French Blonde cocktail the same thing as the Parisian Blonde cocktail?

No, the French Blonde cocktail and the Parisian Blonde Cocktail are completely different drinks. The French Blonde is made with Gin, Lillet Blanc, Elderflower Liqueur, grapefruit juice, and lemon bitters. The Parisian Blonde Cocktail, on the other hand, is made with Jamaican Rum, Orange Curaçao, and heavy cream.

‍

‍

French Blonde Cocktail Recipe: The Wrap-Up

Simply put, the French Blonde cocktail is a damn good drink! With its satisfying blend of Gin, Lillet Blanc, Elderflower Liqueur, grapefruit juice, and a few dashes lemon bitters, this invigorating cocktail offers a perfect balance of botanical, citrus, and floral notes.

‍

Whether you're indulging in a pre-dinner apéritif, toasting a special occasion, or simply enjoying a moment of sophistication, this delicious cocktail is a versatile choice that never fails to impress. From winter get-togethers and chilly winter nights to summer soirees and warm summer evenings, this easy French Blonde cocktail makes an excellent choice for cocktail time all year long!

‍

‍

A writer and photographer, Allie Albanese is the founder and curator of Parched Around the World. Here she seeks to tell stories about the intersection of food, drinks, cultures, and traditions in places near and far.

‍

As the Beverage Director and Head Bartender of a high-volume cocktail bar, Allie spent years honing her mixology skills and learning about the fascinating world of drinks. In the time since, she's worked as a wine and cocktail consultant for both private and corporate clients, as well as a freelance journalist writing about cocktails, wine, food, and travel for various publications across the United States and abroad.

‍

When mixing a drink for herself, you’ll likely find Allie with a fresh Gin Gimlet or a spicy Old Fashioned in hand!