A peek at the unsolicited, unconventional items that cross our desks.
For the past month I've had this cylindrical wicker picnic basket sitting in my office--a gift from the good people of the Lillet marketing team--and every time coworkers come by they open it up and tell me it's cool. And it is.
The only problem is that I will probably never use it. Picnic baskets are like having a super-French boyfriend--charming, but impractical. (So handsome, so doesn't speak English.) You know what I have used, though? The bottle of Lillet that came inside of it.
This aperitif, a blend of Bordeaux wines and citrus liqueurs, makes a lovely thirst quencher on hot summer days. I'm not sure I'd bring it to a picnic, since Lillet is best cold andice doesn't always make a strong showing in the great outdoors. Butit's become one of my favorite things to drink in the summertime. (And I'mnot just saying that because Lillet sends me romantic presents.)
I mix some with equal parts gin, Cointreau, and lemon juice, then add a dash of absinthe for a Corpse Reviver #2. I combine it with muddled basil, fresh orange juice, and seltzer for a refreshing Lillet fizz. I even buy more bottles to give to dinner party hosts who require unconventional wine choices.
And if you happen to have a handsome and super-French boyfriend lying around, I'm sure it would pair well with him too.
Photographs by Monique Naoum