The French 75 is a classic cocktail that exudes elegance and sophistication. With its bubbly effervescence and bright citrus notes, this drink is perfect for celebrations, happy hours, or simply elevating an ordinary evening. This guide provides a detailed recipe and explores the history and variations of this iconic cocktail.
What is a French 75?
The French 75 is a cocktail made from gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and Champagne. It is a potent and refreshing drink, balancing the dryness of gin with the sweetness of simple syrup and the acidity of lemon juice, all topped off with the celebratory sparkle of Champagne. Some recipes use Cognac instead of gin.
The History of the French 75
The French 75 has a rich history, tracing back to the early 20th century. Its origins are often attributed to Harry MacElhone at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris around 1915, during World War I. The cocktail was named “French 75” because it was said to have such a kick that it felt like being shelled by a French 75mm field gun, a powerful piece of artillery used during the war.
From “Soixante Quinze” to Global Icon
Initially, the drink was known as the “Soixante Quinze” (French for 75). Early versions differed slightly from the modern recipe, sometimes including grenadine or other ingredients. The combination of gin, lemon, sugar, and Champagne quickly gained popularity, spreading from Paris to London and eventually across the Atlantic to the United States. Its inclusion in the 1930 edition of “The Savoy Cocktail Book” cemented its place in cocktail history.
The Classic French 75 Recipe
This recipe provides a balanced and flavorful French 75, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Gin (London Dry recommended) or Cognac
- ¾ oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- ¾ oz Simple Syrup
- 2 oz Champagne or other dry sparkling wine
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Equipment:
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Hawthorne strainer
- Champagne flute or coupe glass
- Channel knife or vegetable peeler (for lemon twist)
Instructions:
- Chill your glass: Place your Champagne flute or coupe glass in the freezer for a few minutes to chill. A cold glass helps maintain the drink’s effervescence.
- Combine ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin (or Cognac), fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Add ice: Fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake well: Close the shaker tightly and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels very cold. This ensures the drink is well-chilled and properly mixed.
- Strain: Remove the chilled glass from the freezer. Strain the mixture through a Hawthorne strainer into the chilled glass.
- Top with Champagne: Gently top the drink with Champagne or other dry sparkling wine. Pour slowly to maintain the bubbles.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lemon twist. To make the twist, use a channel knife or vegetable peeler to remove a strip of lemon peel. Twist the peel over the drink to release its oils, then place it on the rim of the glass or float it in the drink.
Tips for the Perfect French 75
- Use fresh ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a significant difference in the flavor of the cocktail. Avoid using bottled lemon juice.
- Quality spirits: Choose a good quality gin or Cognac. A London Dry gin works well, providing a crisp and clean base.
- Dry sparkling wine: Opt for a dry Champagne or other dry sparkling wine, such as Brut or Extra Brut, to balance the sweetness of the simple syrup.
- Proper shaking: Shake the ingredients well to ensure the drink is properly chilled and mixed.
- Gentle pouring: Pour the Champagne gently to preserve its bubbles.
Variations of the French 75
While the classic recipe is timeless, there are numerous variations that add unique twists to the French 75.
Using Cognac: The French 75 Alternative
One of the most common variations is to substitute Cognac for gin. This creates a richer, warmer flavor profile, adding depth and complexity to the cocktail. The remaining ingredients and instructions stay the same.
Jasmine French 75
This variation adds a floral touch to the classic cocktail, incorporating Jasmine flavors.
Ingredients:
- 30mL Gin
- 5mL Bitter Liqueur
- 1 teaspoon Orange Marmalade
- 20mL Lemon Juice
- 75mL Sparkling Wine
Instructions:
- Combine gin, bitter liqueur, orange marmalade, and lemon juice in a shaker with ice.
- Shake until well-chilled.
- Double strain into a flute.
- Top with sparkling wine.
Other Flavor Variations
- Herbal: Infuse simple syrup with herbs like lavender, rosemary, or thyme for a subtle herbal note.
- Fruity: Add a splash of fruit liqueur, such as raspberry or peach, for a fruity twist.
- Spicy: Incorporate a dash of bitters or a pinch of spice, such as ginger or cardamom, for added complexity.
The French 75 Beyond the Recipe
The French 75 is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s about taking a moment to appreciate the finer things in life, whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a well-crafted cocktail.
Serving Suggestions
The French 75 is typically served in a Champagne flute or coupe glass. These glasses enhance the drink’s effervescence and presentation. It is best enjoyed immediately after preparation to preserve its bubbles and flavor.
Food Pairings
The bright and bubbly nature of the French 75 makes it a versatile cocktail for food pairings. It pairs well with:
- Appetizers: Oysters, canapés, and other light appetizers.
- Seafood: Grilled shrimp, seared scallops, or smoked salmon.
- Brunch: Eggs Benedict, quiche, or pastries.
- Desserts: Fruit tarts, macarons, or light cakes.
The Enduring Appeal
The French 75 has remained a popular cocktail for over a century, thanks to its balanced flavor, elegant presentation, and rich history. Its simple yet sophisticated profile makes it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or new to the world of cocktails, the French 75 is a must-try.
The French 75 cocktail is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic cocktails. With its simple ingredients, balanced flavor, and rich history, it’s no wonder this drink has remained a favorite for over a century. Whether you prefer the classic gin version or a creative variation, the French 75 is sure to impress.
