If you’re a dedicated fan of Taylor Swift, you probably already know that her classic drink of choice is vodka with Diet Coke. But that doesn’t mean the pop star doesn’t have a go-to cocktail that’s a little more elevated—and her latest girl’s night out gave us a new order to try. Rye restaurant in Kansas City reported at the beginning of January that when she’s getting drinks, she usually goes for a French Blonde cocktail.
Fresh, lightly sweet, and not overly strong, this drink combines grapefruit juice, elderflower liqueur (typically St-Germain), Lillet Blanc, gin, and a bit of lemon bitters. You can also garnish it with a lemon peel on top or added to the side of the glass.
Lillet Blanc is a French aperitif (hence the name) that primarily has citrus and honey notes. It’s only slightly stronger than a typical wine, so it doesn’t overpower the rest of the cocktail—even with the added gin, which some recipes deem it optional. It’s a fun, floral drink that makes an ideal cocktail for a night out (or in).
If you’re planning out a menu for any upcoming holiday parties, a French Blonde has a romantic feel that’s perfect for a Valentine’s or Galentine’s day celebration. The balanced, citrusy flavors make it the ideal party drink—plus, it doesn’t take too much effort to make, and it’s also not hard to sip down more than one. Although it has a traditionally yellow color, you can use red grapefruit juice to make the cocktail pink and really fit your theme.
Using fresh grapefruit juice provides you with a more authentic, bright flavor. You can also substitute a dash of lemon juice for the lemon bitters. Not able to find Lillet Blanc in time? Dry vermouth works in a pinch, although it doesn’t have as much of a citrusy flavor as the original. However, you can accommodate this by adding extra orange and lemon bitters (or juice).
So, if you’re looking for a refreshing and elegant cocktail to serve at your next gathering, Taylor Swift’s favorite French Blonde cocktail might just be the perfect choice. Its fresh, citrusy flavors are the perfect combination of romantic and fun, making it an ideal addition to any celebration.