Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning British monarch, was known for her grace, discipline, and unwavering dedication to her role. Beyond her public persona, she had well-established daily rituals—one of which was her refined drinking routine. According to former royal chef Darren McGrady and her cousin Margaret Rhodes, the Queen enjoyed a selection of drinks throughout the day, each reflecting her taste for classic and sophisticated beverages.
Pre-Lunch: Gin & Dubonnet
The Queen’s day began with a pre-lunch aperitif—a Gin and Dubonnet served over ice with a slice of lemon. Dubonnet, a French fortified wine infused with herbs and quinine, complemented the botanical notes of gin, creating a slightly sweet yet bitter drink.
This preference was not unique to the Queen; it was also a favorite of her mother, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. The Royal Warrant awarded to Dubonnet in 2021 further cemented its place in royal tradition.
Lunchtime: A Glass of Wine
During lunch, Queen Elizabeth enjoyed a glass of wine, reportedly favoring German wines. The royal family has long had an appreciation for European vintages, and while the exact type of wine she preferred wasn’t always disclosed, German Rieslings were often mentioned as a favorite.
Evening: Dry Gin Martini
As the day wound down, the Queen indulged in a dry gin martini, a cocktail she shared a fondness for with her son, King Charles III. A traditional martini consists of gin and dry vermouth, garnished with either a lemon twist or an olive. This classic, no-nonsense drink reflected her preference for sophisticated yet straightforward flavors.
Before Bed: A Glass of Champagne
To end her day, the Queen sipped on a glass of champagne before retiring for the night. She was known to prefer prestigious brands such as Bollinger, Krug, Lanson, and Pol Roger, all of which hold Royal Warrants—a testament to their high quality and royal approval.
A Sweet Indulgence: Chocolate Biscuit Cake
Alongside her carefully curated drinks, Queen Elizabeth had a well-known sweet tooth, with a particular love for chocolate biscuit cake. This no-bake dessert, made with tea biscuits and dark chocolate, was reportedly such a favorite that a chef always traveled with it to ensure she had a slice wherever she went.
Summing Up
Queen Elizabeth II’s daily drinking habits were not merely about indulgence; they reflected a life of tradition, personal taste, and royal sophistication. From her pre-lunch gin and Dubonnet to her nightly glass of champagne, each drink was a carefully chosen staple of her routine. Whether for relaxation or as part of her refined palate, these beverages were a signature of the Queen’s legendary elegance and timeless charm.
