French 75

February 9, 2025 Alessandro Scire Calabrisotto

French 75: The Effervescent Elegance of a Classic

The French 75 is a cocktail that effortlessly combines the charm of gin with the sparkle of champagne, creating a sophisticated drink that has long been a favorite of cocktail connoisseurs. Named after a powerful French artillery gun used during World War I, this effervescent cocktail is both vibrant and refined. The French 75’s unique blend of gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and champagne makes it the perfect choice for any occasion—whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply enjoying an evening of elegance.

While it may seem simple, the French 75 has a rich history and a dynamic personality, offering a delicate balance of botanical depth and refreshing bubbles. It is a drink that has withstood the test of time, becoming a symbol of refinementand celebration.

The Origins of the French 75: A Cocktail with a Storied Past

The French 75 is often attributed to bartender Harry MacElhone at his bar, Harry's New York Bar in Paris, sometime around 1915. However, its origins are somewhat debated, with some claiming it was first created in New York. The drink’s name comes from the 75mm French field gun, a piece of artillery known for its powerful kick—a fitting metaphor for the cocktail's blend of gin and champagne, which packs a punch despite its light and refreshing taste.

The French 75 became famous in the post-World War I era, a time when both gin and champagne were popular in the cocktail scene. The drink’s sparkling nature made it ideal for the celebratory mood of the Roaring Twenties, symbolizing luxury and exuberance. Over time, it became associated with refined gatherings, from elegant cocktail parties to festive New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Despite its association with luxury, the French 75 is a surprisingly approachable cocktail, one that balances the bright effervescence of champagne with the smooth, botanically complex flavors of gin. It embodies the spirit of celebration, elegance, and joy, making it a timeless choice for any festive occasion.

The Classic French 75 Recipe: A Sparkling Delight

The French 75 is a delightful combination of crisp gin, tart lemon juice, and champagne, topped with a bit of simple syrup for sweetness. Here’s how to make this classic cocktail:

Ingredients:

45 ml (1.5 oz) Gin (London Dry Gin works best)
20 ml (0.67 oz) Fresh Lemon Juice
15 ml (0.5 oz) Simple Syrup
60 ml (2 oz) Champagne (or any dry sparkling wine)
Ice
Lemon Twist or Lemon Peel (for garnish)

Instructions:

Shake: Combine the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. Add ice and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled.
Strain: Strain the mixture into a chilled flute glass or coupe glass.
Top with Champagne: Gently top the drink with champagne (or your choice of sparkling wine). The champagne should be poured gently to preserve the bubbles and effervescence.
Garnish: Garnish with a lemon twist or lemon peel to add a bright citrus note to the drink.

Additional Tips for Perfecting the French 75

Gin Selection: While the French 75 can be made with any gin, London dry gin is the most popular choice. Its crisp, botanical profile works beautifully with the freshness of lemon juice and the bubbles of champagne.
Champagne vs. Sparkling Wine: While champagne is the traditional choice for a French 75, any dry sparkling wine like Prosecco or Cava will work as well. The key is to use a sparkling wine that is dry, as this balances the sweetness of the syrup and enhances the refreshing quality of the cocktail.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for the bright, tart element that the French 75 is known for. Avoid bottled lemon juice for the best flavor.
Sweetness: Adjust the amount of simple syrup depending on how sweet you like your cocktails. You can also experiment with a flavored syrup, such as lavender or ginger, for a twist on the classic.
Garnishing: The lemon twist adds a fragrant citrus aroma, but you can also experiment with a lemon wheel or even a sprig of fresh thyme for an herbaceous twist.

Variations of the French 75

While the classic French 75 recipe is beloved by many, several variations have emerged over time. Here are a few popular takes:

Raspberry French 75: Add a splash of raspberry liqueur or muddled raspberries to give the French 75 a fruity twist. The berries' tartness complements the lemon and enhances the drink’s refreshing qualities.
French 75 with Gin Infusions: For a unique twist, try infusing your gin with botanicals like cucumber, rosemary, or lavender. This adds a subtle, aromatic layer of flavor to the classic recipe.
Pimm’s French 75: Substitute the gin with Pimm’s No. 1 for a more herbaceous and slightly sweeter take on the cocktail. This variation makes for a refreshing summer drink.
Citrus French 75: Experiment with different citrus fruits, such as grapefruit or lime, to create a more complex and vibrant flavor profile.

Why the French 75 is a Must-Try Cocktail

The French 75 is a classic cocktail that strikes a perfect balance between effervescence and elegance. It’s a drink that has stood the test of time, evolving from a post-World War I creation to a modern favorite for celebrations and special occasions. Its combination of gin, lemon, and champagne creates a refreshing and sophisticated profile that is both simple and luxurious.

What makes the French 75 stand out is its versatility. While it’s traditionally associated with celebratory events, it works just as well as an elegant aperitif before dinner or a cocktail to enjoy on a summer afternoon. The champagne adds a festive sparkle, while the gin brings complexity and depth. The lemon juice adds freshness, and the simple syrupprovides just the right touch of sweetness.

Whether you’re looking for a cocktail to serve at a glamorous party or simply enjoy on a quiet evening, the French 75 is the perfect drink that embodies both style and refinement. It’s a drink that invites you to savor the moment and appreciate the finer things in life.

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