Antoine Special

Pro tips

• Chill your glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving to keep the drink cold longer without over-diluting.
• Use fresh, quality vermouth—oxidized or old vermouth will flatten the herbal notes and balance of this simple drink.
• Stir gently for exactly 30 seconds; over-stirring waters down the delicate herbal profile.

Substitutions

• Dubonnet → Lillet Blanc (lighter, more citrus-forward)
• Dry Vermouth → Noilly Prat (slightly more botanical, drier finish)

Storage & make-ahead

This cocktail is best served immediately after preparation. Store unopened bottles of Dubonnet and vermouth in a cool, dark place for up to 2 years.

What is Dubonnet and can I substitute it?

Dubonnet is a fortified wine with herbs and spices. Noilly Prat or Lillet Blanc are the closest substitutes, though they'll shift the flavor profile slightly.

Should this cocktail be shaken or stirred?

Stir with ice for 30 seconds to chill and dilute slightly—this is a spirit-forward aperitif that benefits from a silky texture rather than dilution.

What glassware is best for this drink?

Serve in a coupe glass or small cocktail glass over ice or up (without ice), chilled beforehand.

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Mix the base ingredients in a pitcher and chill, then stir with ice and serve individually just before serving to preserve carbonation and temperature.