The Frivolous Dubonnet is an elegant, slightly bitter-sweet cocktail that gains deep, fruity complexity from the combination of red vermouth and cherry brandy. The egg white ensures a silky texture, while the soda water provides a light fizz. Perfect as an aperitif or paired with savory starters. A drink that delivers great flavor with minimal effort—and still feels surprisingly fresh.
Here’s what you need for the Frivolous Dubonnet
4 cl red vermouth (e.g. Dubonnet)
2 cl cherry brandy (Cherry Brandy)
1 cl freshly squeezed lemon juice
0.5 cl egg white (fresh or pasteurized)
Ice cubes
Soda water to top up
1 lemon wheel for garnish
Key to success
Shake the egg white *before* adding the ice—that’s the trick to a stable, creamy texture. Many bartenders skip this step and wonder why the drink tastes flat. Also: Red vermouth like Dubonnet has a subtle vanilla note that pairs well with the cherry brandy. For a bolder flavor, swap the cherry brandy for a *darker* Cherry Brandy—it adds more depth and a slight bitterness that emphasizes the vermouth.
Variations
- Frivolous Dubonnet Royal — Replace the soda water with 3 cl Champagne or Crémant. The fine effervescence elevates the vermouth’s aromas and makes the drink even more elegant. Garnish: Lemon zest instead of a wheel.
- Herbal Frivolous — Add 1 cl absinthe or a robust herbal liqueur (e.g. Chartreuse). This enhances the vermouth’s spicy notes and gives the drink a mysterious depth. Garnish: Thyme sprig instead of lemon.
Frequently asked questions
Can I omit the egg white?
Yes, but the drink will lose its creamy texture and taste thinner. If you don’t want to use egg, try 0.5 cl cream or a splash of egg substitute (e.g. aquafaba)—the result is similar, though not quite as stable.
Which cherry brandy works best?
A *dry* Cherry Brandy with a pronounced cherry note and slight bitterness. Sweet varieties (like cherry liqueur) can overpower the vermouth’s flavors. If you can’t find cherry brandy, a high-quality *Kirschgeist* (clear cherry spirit) works too—it’s intense and fruity.
Why does my drink taste flat?
Likely because the egg white wasn’t shaken dry enough or the ice was too warm. Make sure the shaker is *cold* and the egg white becomes slightly foamy before adding ice. Also: Don’t overdo the soda water—it should only top up, not dominate.
