The Parasol Cocktail is a light, herbaceous, citrusy and bubbly drink. Serve it on a hot evening or any special occasion!
Imagine a warm evening, the sun setting, and a refreshing cocktail in hand. The Parasol Cocktail, with its delicate balance of flavors, offers a sophisticated way to elevate any evening. This drink, featuring Lillet Blanc as its star ingredient, is not only easy to make but also incredibly delightful. In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about The Parasol Cocktail, from understanding its ingredients to detailed step-by-step instructions for crafting this exquisite beverage at home.
Why you’ll love The Parasol Cocktail
- Light and bubbly!
- Fragrant and sophisticated!
- Easy to make!
- Great for a brunch, hot evening or any celebration!
- Refreshing and sweet!
Understanding the ingredients
To create the perfect Parasol Cocktail, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to form a harmonious blend. The primary ingredients include:
- Lillet Blanc: A French aperitif wine that brings a subtle sweetness and floral notes.
- Elderflower Liqueur: Such as St-Germain, which adds a sweet, floral element.
- Champagne: Creates a light, bubbly effervescence.
- Citrus Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice adds a bright, tangy kick.
- Sweetener: Simple syrup or honey to balance the tartness of the citrus.
What is Lillet Blanc?
Lillet Blanc is a vital component of the Parasol Cocktail, known for its unique flavor profile that combines sweetness, bitterness, and a hint of floral. Originating from France, Lillet Blanc has been enjoyed as an aperitif since the late 19th century. Its blend of Bordeaux wines and citrus liqueurs gives it a distinctive character that pairs beautifully with a variety of ingredients.
The versatility of Lillet Blanc makes it an ideal base for the Parasol Cocktail, complementing the citrus and sweetener while adding depth and complexity. You can find Lillet Blanc at most well-stocked liquor stores. Once opened, it should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.
What is Elderflower liqueur and why use it in cocktails?
St. Germain (pronounced “Sahn-jer-MAHN) or elderflower liqueur is made from the small, white, blossoms of the elderflower bush. These flowers are handpicked and the liqueur is made with no preservatives or additives. So use it within 6 months of opening for best flavor. You may be thinking, why would I want flowers in my drink? Don’t worry it doesn’t taste like cheap perfume, but rather, adds a layer of complexity and elegance to cocktails. The sweet, floral notes of elderflower complement the effervescence of champagne, creating a harmonious marriage of flavors. Delve into the history of elderflower in mixology, discovering its cultural significance and how it has become a staple in crafting exquisite cocktails.
What Champagne should I use?
While you can use any Champagne, I prefer demi-sec champagnes that tend to be on the sweeter side.
According to gayot.com the best demi-sec Champagnes are:
- Champagne A. Margaine Cuvée, runs about $45 for 750 ml
- Billecart-Salmon’s Demi-Sec, runs about $55 for 750ml
- Champagne Collet, runs about $53 for 750ml
According to Liquor.com the best Brut (dry) Champagnes are:
- Krug Grande Cuvée Brut, runs about $180 for 750 ml (Best Overall)
- Duval-Leroy Brut Reserve, runs about $43 for 750 ml (Best Value)
- Delamotte Blanc de Blancs, runs about $123 (Best Brut)
However, there is no need to break the bank and use Champagnes from France. There are many budget-friendly alternatives. For example:
- Italian Prosecco (that I used for this recipe) that runs about $13-20 for 750ml
- Spanish Cava which runs about $15-25 for 750 ml
- Gruet Demi-Sec, from America that runs about $17 for 750 ml
The Parasol Cocktail-Ingredients
- 1/2 oz Lillet Blanc
- 1/2 oz St Germain
- 1 tbsp honey
- 3/4 oz lemon juice
- 3 oz Prosecco
Step-by-Step-Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add Lillet Blanc, St. Germain, honey and lemon juice and shake until thoroughly mixed and chilled.
- Strain into a chilled champagne flute.
- Top off with Prosecco.
- Serve and enjoy!
- Cheers!
Serving and Presentation
Presentation plays a significant role in the enjoyment of the Parasol Cocktail. Here are some tips for serving:
- Glassware: A chilled Champagne flute or coupe glass not only looks elegant but also enhances the drinking experience.
- Garnishes: Citrus twists, herb sprigs, or even a small cocktail umbrella can add a visually appealing touch.
- Serving Temperature: Ensure the cocktail is well-chilled by serving it immediately after shaking.
By paying attention to these details, you can create a visually stunning and delicious Parasol Cocktail that will impress your guests.
Additional Ingredients and Variations
While the classic Parasol Cocktail is delightful on its own, you can experiment with additional ingredients to create your own variations. Consider adding:
- Fresh Herbs: Mint or basil can add a refreshing herbal note.
- Bitters: A few dashes of aromatic or citrus bitters can enhance the complexity.
- Sparkling Water: For a lighter, fizzy version, top off your cocktail with a splash of sparkling water.
You might also try variations with different citrus juices, such as orange or grapefruit, or even incorporate a splash of gin for a stronger drink. Each variation offers a new twist on the original, allowing you to tailor the cocktail to your taste preferences.
Mix up The Parasol Cocktail anytime!
The Parasol Cocktail is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and elegance in mixology. With its blend of Lillet Blanc, bubbly, fresh citrus, and a hint of sweetness, this cocktail is perfect for any occasion. We encourage you to experiment with the recipe and make it your own. Share your variations and experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow our blog for more cocktail recipes and tips. Cheers to elevating your evening with the Parasol Cocktail! And remember…
Life’s too short to eat bad food!
For other Champagne cocktails try:
Chambord and Champagne Cocktail
St. Germain Champagne Cocktail
The Parasol Cocktail
Equipment
- Cocktail Shaker
- Champagne flute chilled
Ingredients
- 1/2 oz Lillet Blanc
- 1/2 oz St Germain
- 1 tbsp honey
- 3/4 oz lemon juice
- 3 oz Prosecco
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add Lillet Blanc, St. Germain, honey and lemon juice and shake until thoroughly mixed and chilled.
- Strain into a chilled champagne flute.
- Top off with Prosecco.
- Serve and enjoy!
- Cheers!
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