If you are discovering the drinks of the Bordeaux region, you have probably come across Lillet. This iconic French aperitif is one of the best-kept secrets of the Bordeaux area and a must-try when you visit. But what exactly is Lillet, where does it come from, and how do you drink it? In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about Lillet Bordeaux.

What is Lillet?

Lillet is a French aperitif produced in Podensac, a small village just south of Bordeaux. It belongs to the family of apéritifs: drinks traditionally enjoyed before dinner to stimulate the appetite. The word apéritif comes from the Latin aperire, meaning "to open". In France, l'apéritif (or simply l'apéro) is a beloved social ritual.

Lillet Bordeaux is made from 85% wine and 15% fruit liqueur and cinchona (quinquina). The fruit peels macerate for several weeks before being blended with the wine, creating a complex and aromatic drink. It is lightly sweet, refreshing and distinctly French.

Lillet Blanc, Rosé and Rouge

Lillet Bordeaux comes in three varieties, each with its own character:

• Lillet Blanc: the original and most popular. Fresh, floral and slightly honeyed. Perfect over ice with a slice of cucumber or lemon.
• Lillet Rosé: lighter and fruitier, with red berry notes. Great for summer evenings on a terrace in Bordeaux.
• Lillet Rouge: richer and more intense, with orange and spice notes. The perfect winter aperitif.

The differences between the three come from the fruit peels used in the maceration process and the type of wine used as the base. Each variety pairs beautifully with tonic water and fresh fruit.

3 Lillet cocktail recipes

One of the best things about Lillet Bordeaux is how easy it is to make cocktails. Here are three simple recipes to try at home:

Lillet Tonic Blanc

• 5cl de Lillet blanc
• 10cl de tonic
• Des glaçons (ice cubes)
• Une rondelle de concombre (a slice of cucumber)

Fill a glass with ice, pour the Lillet blanc, top with tonic and garnish with a slice of cucumber. Simple, refreshing and very Bordeaux.

Lillet Tonic Rouge

• 5cl de Lillet rouge
• 10cl de tonic
• Des glaçons (ice cubes)
• 1 tranche d'orange (a slice of orange)

Fill a glass with ice, pour the Lillet rouge, top with tonic and garnish with a slice of orange. Rich, warming and perfect for autumn evenings.

Lillet Berry

• 5cl de Lillet blanc
• Des glaçons (ice cubes)
• 2 tranches de fraises et de framboises (strawberries and raspberries)

Fill a glass with ice, pour the Lillet blanc and garnish with fresh strawberries and raspberries. A beautiful summer cocktail that looks as good as it tastes.

Where to find Lillet in Bordeaux

If you want to taste Lillet Bordeaux in the place where it was created, head to the village of Podensac, about 30 kilometres south of Bordeaux on the banks of the Garonne. The Lillet cellar offers guided tours and tastings where you can learn about the history of this iconic aperitif and discover how it is made. It is a wonderful half-day trip from Bordeaux and a great opportunity to practise your French with the locals.

Back in the city, you will find Lillet on almost every bar menu in Bordeaux. Order a Lillet Tonic at any café terrace and you will immediately feel like a true Bordelais. The aperitif culture in France is something you simply have to experience, and Lillet Bordeaux is the perfect introduction.

Lillet Bordeaux is just one of the many wonderful things to discover in this region. Want to learn more about the drinks and food of Bordeaux in French? Our cultural activities in Bordeaux include wine tasting and food discovery sessions guided in French by native teachers.

You might also enjoy our articles on wine from Bordeaux and the famous pastry from Bordeaux.

Channel Trotters: French in Bordeaux