Antoine Special

Pro tips

• Stir for a full 30 seconds over ice to properly chill and dilute the fortified wines without over-aerating.
• Chill your coupe or cocktail glass in the freezer for at least 5 minutes before straining to maintain the drink's temperature.
• Use high-quality dry vermouth stored in a cool, dark place; opened bottles degrade quickly, so replace every 6–8 weeks.
• Taste the balance of herbal sweetness to dryness; adjust vermouth-to-Dubonnet ratio slightly if your vermouth is particularly dry or oxidized.

Substitutions

• Dubonnet → Lillet Blanc (lighter, less herbal; will be less sweet)
• Dry Vermouth → Blanc vermouth (softer, slightly rounder mouthfeel)

Storage & make-ahead

Serve immediately after preparation. Do not store mixed cocktails; store opened Dubonnet and vermouth bottles upright in a cool, dark cabinet and discard vermouth after 2 months of opening.

Equipment

cocktail mixing glass · bar spoon · cocktail strainer

What is Dubonnet and can I substitute it?

Dubonnet is a French fortified wine with herbal and quinine notes. If unavailable, use Lillet Blanc or sweet vermouth, though the flavor profile will shift.

Should the Antoine Special be shaken or stirred?

This drink is traditionally stirred with ice in a mixing glass, then strained into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass to maintain its smooth, integrated flavor.

What's the ideal temperature to serve this cocktail?

Serve well-chilled at around 45–50°F. Pre-chill your glassware and stir the drink thoroughly with ice for at least 30 seconds.

Can I make the Antoine Special ahead of time?

Prepare individual servings just before serving; don't batch-make this drink, as the dilution and temperature are critical to its balance.