The Merry Widow Fizz combines the bittersweet depth of a red aperitif with the fresh acidity of citrus and the creamy foam of an egg white fizz. Dubonnet – an aromatised wine-based aperitif enriched with spices and herbs – gives the drink its characteristic spice. Perfect for the transition from aperitif to long drink: tart enough to whet the appetite, but light and spritzig to avoid weighing you down.
And this is what you need for the Merry Widow Fizz
4 cl Dubonnet (red aperitif based on aromatised wine)
2 cl lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
2 cl orange juice (freshly squeezed)
1 egg white (fresh, room temperature)
6 cl soda water
Garnish: lemon zest (thinly peeled, without pith)
What matters
The egg white must be shaken *before* the ice is added – otherwise it will curdle too quickly and the foam will be flat. If you don’t want to use raw egg, you can use 1 cl pasteurised egg white substitute, but the foam will be less stable. Important: never replace Dubonnet with another aperitif; its spice note (including cinchona bark, cinnamon) is essential for the balance. If you prefer the drink a little drier, reduce the orange juice to 1 cl and balance it with 1 cl more soda.
Variations
- Merry Widow Royal — Replace the soda water with 4 cl Champagne or Crémant. The drink becomes more sparkling and refined – ideal for special occasions. Garnish: place a single raspberry on the foam.
- Herbal Widow Fizz — Add 2 cl Gin and 1 cl Absinth, reduce the Dubonnet to 3 cl. The drink becomes stronger and more complex, with a spicy note. Garnish: briefly warm a thyme sprig over a flame and place it on the foam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the Dubonnet with another aperitif?
No. Dubonnet has a unique spice blend (including cinchona bark, cinnamon) that gives the drink its characteristic flavour. Other aperitifs like Campari or Lillet fundamentally alter the taste.
Why is the egg white shaken without ice?
Egg white curdles quickly when in contact with acid and ice. By whipping it first without ice, a more stable foam is created that later blends better with the soda.
Can I make the drink without egg white?
Yes, but then the foam will be missing. Alternatively, use 1 cl pasteurised egg white or 0.5 cl aquafaba (chickpea water) – the effect is similar, but less creamy.
