Dubonnet is a French aperitif made from fortified wine and flavored with quinine and herbs. It has an alcohol by volume of 15.0%.
History
Dubonnet was created in Paris in 1846 by pharmacist and wine merchant Joseph Dubonnet. It was developed to make quinine, a malaria treatment, more palatable for French soldiers in North Africa. The drink gained popularity and became known through successful advertising campaigns featuring artists like A.M. Cassandre and Jules Chéret.
How it is made
Dubonnet comes in red, white, and amber varieties. It is made from specific grape varieties including Grenache, Carignan, and Macabeo. The distinctive flavor comes from quinine, orange, green coffee, and Frasera caroliniensis, along with notes of cocoa, cinnamon, chamomile, and elderflower. The exact recipe and production method remain a secret.
How it is served
Dubonnet is served at room temperature or slightly chilled. It is also used in numerous cocktails including the Foreign Legion, No. 5, Dubonnet Cocktail, Four Score, Savoy Affair, Savoy Corpse Reviver, and the Blenheim.
Adapted from the Russian Wikipedia article Дюбонне, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.