Name: Laura Campbell
Class Year: 2005
Country of Residence: France
Why is this recipe great? What’s its backstory?
A bubbly, fruity, and light punch perfect for the summer, Marquisette is synonymous with festive family occasions in Southern France for me. This recipe is my French mother-in-law Colette’s, and while it’s very easy to make, it does require some planning ahead. Opening a bottle of champagne or other bubbly wine means we know it’s a special occasion when it’s served. Colette’s family has lived in the Montpellier and Avignon area for generations, and Marquisette is often served at village festivals in summer in the Ardèche, Gard, and Hérault departments.
A regional drink almost to a fault, I was surprised to discover it’s unheard of in Toulouse or Marseille even though the regions are close. Marquisette is delicate and sweet, and deserves to be known beyond Southern France. It’s the perfect drink for a warm evening outdoors with friends and family, dancing under Chinese lanterns while the fireflies come out.