If you're a fan of light, floral cocktails with a modern twist, the French Blonde is about to become your new favorite. Elegant and refreshing, it's gained major buzz as Taylor Swift's cocktail of choice, but its charm goes well beyond the spotlight.
What Is a French Blonde Cocktail?
The name reflects both its ingredients and personality:
●“French” refers to Lillet Blanc and St-Germain, two iconic French spirits.
●“Blonde” evokes its pale golden color and stylish, bright character—much like a carefree afternoon in Provence.
The French Blonde is a sophisticated, citrus-forward cocktail made with gin, Lillet Blanc, elderflower liqueur (usually St-Germain), and fresh grapefruit juice. It’s often finished with a touch of lemon bitters or a twist of lemon peel. Though not found in many classic cocktail books, it's believed to have originated in France in the 1920s, giving it that old-world glamour with a contemporary vibe.
Why Everyone's Talking About It
Aside from its beautifully balanced flavor, the French Blonde cocktail shot to stardom when it was revealed as Taylor Swift's favorite drink, reportedly ordered at Rye, a Kansas City restaurant. Since then, it’s become a fan favorite for cocktail lovers, Swifties, and curious drinkers alike.
This cocktail is ideal for those who enjoy French 75s, Tom Collins, or other botanical-forward, citrusy drinks.
French Blonde Cocktail Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make the perfect French Blonde:
●1 oz (30 ml) Gin – Use a botanical-forward gin like Hendrick’s or a clean London Dry style
●1 oz (30 ml) Lillet Blanc – A French aperitif wine with notes of honey, citrus, and herbs
●1 oz (30 ml) St-Germain – A sweet elderflower liqueur
●1 oz (30 ml) Fresh grapefruit juice – Oro Blanco or MeloGold varieties are ideal
●Lemon bitters or fresh lemon juice – Optional but adds a nice depth
●Garnish: Grapefruit or lemon peel
How to Make a French Blonde
Chill the glass – Place a coupe or martini glass in the freezer.
Shake – In a cocktail shaker, combine all ingredients with ice. Shake until well chilled (about 10–15 seconds).
Strain – Strain into the chilled glass.
Garnish – Twist a peel of grapefruit or lemon over the drink and drop it in.
French Blonde Cocktail Variations & Tips
French Redhead
Swap pink or ruby red grapefruit juice to turn this into a stunning pink version known as the French Redhead.
Make it Sparkling
Top with Prosecco or Champagne for a bubbly twist.
No Gin? No Problem.
Substitute vodka or blanco tequila for a fun twist.
No Lillet Blanc?
You can substitute with dry vermouth, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
For a richer version, try a few drops of honey syrup or muddled rosemary.
Batch It for a Party
Combine the following in a pitcher:
●1 (750ml) bottle Lillet Blanc
●3 cups grapefruit juice
●1 (375ml) bottle gin
●200ml elderflower liqueur
●1/4 cup lemon juice or 4.5 tsp lemon bitters
Chill and serve with ice and garnishes on the side.
Storage Tips
●Lillet Blanc must be refrigerated (between 38°F–45°F (3°C–7°C)) after opening and is best within one month.
If you're using a dual zone wine & beverage cooler, store Lillet Blanc in the white wine section or upper zone, which usually maintains temps around 40–45°F (4–7°C).
●St-Germain keeps well and also works great in French 75s or white wine spritzers.
