The Lillet Tonic, an invigorating spritz cocktail, blends the simplicity of two ingredients: Lillet, a uniquely aromatic French wine, and a dash of tonic water. To present this cocktail, fill a wineglass with ice and finish it with a fresh orange slice for garnish.

Consisting of an alcohol base and a fizzy non-alcoholic mixer in a 2:1 ratio, the Lillet Tonic could be considered a version of a highball cocktail. However, given the low-alcohol aromatic wine base and its presentation in a wineglass, it falls comfortably into the spritz family as well.

The distinctive character of Lillet, the French aromatized wine derived from mostly Bordeaux grown grapes, defines the Lillet Tonic. The wine's foundations are Semillon, blended with a touch of Merlot for the rosé variant, mixed with tangy citrus liqueurs to create a balanced, aromatic aperitif. Originating from Podensac, a quaint village in Bordeaux, La Maison Lillet has been crafting their wine since 1872.

The cocktail's recipe is delightfully uncomplicated. The tonic water proves to be the perfect bubbly counterpart to Lillet with its contrasting bitter yet sweet flavor balancing the fruitiness of the wine. Interestingly, the use of added quinine introduces a nostalgic nod to Kina Lillet, a quinine-forward variant of Lillet discontinued in 1986, which was renowned for its role in the Vesper Martini.

Both the Lillet Blanc and Lillet Rosé offer a rich flavor profile, enhanced by time spent in the oak. The nuances in flavor range from notes of orange and jasmine in the Blanc, to hints of grapefruit in the rosé. The orange garnish on the Lillet Tonic emphasizes the underlying citrus elements weaved into the Lillet.

Here's how you can whip up this simple cocktail at home: Take 3 ounces of tonic water and 1.5 ounces of either Lillet Blanc or Lillet Rosé. Combine in a wine or highball glass filled with ice. Mix well, and garnish with a fresh wedge of orange. Enjoy this effortless, elegant cocktail any time.