Dubonnet Rouge

Appearance: A transparent dark ruby red, more like brick red than burgundy. Aroma: Blackberry, dark cherry, plum with a red wine undertone. It's reminiscent of port, oloroso sherry, or marsala. There's also a subtle herbal quality. Flavor and Texture: Sweet fortified wine flavors (raisins, red berries) with a gentle bittersweet note akin to tart cherries, marmalade, or chinotto orange. Spicy complexity with cinnamon notes and a hint of cloves makes it almost resemble mulled wine. The texture is neutral, and although sweetness is present throughout, it's not syrupy. A well-balanced aromatised wine product that shares characteristics with sweet vermouth, Lillet rouge, and some wine-based amari. It can be enjoyed in various ways, including neat, on the rocks with a lemon slice. Dubonnet & gin is a classic from the 1930s that remains a popular choice for many to this day. Its reputation was solidified in the UK by the Queen Mother's fondness for it, a preference she passed on to the current monarch. It's not as sweet and citrus-forward as most Italian aperitifs, but it is sweeter than Lillet rouge (though it tastes a bit more "fusty"). In a way, it's quite like a sophisticated Pimms #1 cup. The quinine content gives this aperitif more poise and interest than others, although its level has unfortunately decreased over time. I believe the version available in the US differed from the one in Europe and Commonwealth countries until a few years ago when it was reformulated, but it is reportedly still sweeter. A great staple and the foundation for several classic mixed drinks. Personally, I prefer Carpano Antica when I'm in the mood for something similar, but Dubonnet is less than half the price, making it hard to resist. "Good": 84/100 (3.75 stars)

It comes across as a sweet red wine with a high alcohol content. Slightly dry and not terrible, but I wouldn't drink it like wine for the cost. I'm not detecting any herbal notes or other flavors. I may need to try it again later with a clean palate.

It functions well as an unaccompanied aperitif and can be used in certain mixed drinks, particularly with Gin, as a royal favorite.

Notes of berries, tart cherry, cinnamon, sweet vermouth, herbs, black tea. Sweet and thick on the palate. Tastes like dessert wine.

The taste is led by soil notes, stone fruits, and dark berries. A pleasant wine foundation. It works well on its own or mixed.