French 75
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French 75
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.65 / 5

The French 75 is a classic cocktail believed to have originated in Paris during World War I. Its name is derived from the French 75mm field gun used in the war.

This elegant drink has a balanced and refreshing flavor profile, with the tartness of lemon juice and sweetness of sugar syrup complementing the juniper notes of gin. The addition of champagne adds a touch of effervescence and sophistication to the drink.

The French 75 is typically served in a champagne flute and garnished with a lemon twist. It is a popular choice for celebrations and special occasions, and is often considered the perfect cocktail to transition from aperitif to dinner.

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100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die (Part 2)
Base ingredient
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Gin
Calories
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193 calories
Garnish
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Lemon
Alcohol content
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14.67% | 2.64 units *

Tags

tag icon
Christmas cocktail
Gin ingredient icon
Gin cocktails

Champagne glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Lemon Juice cocktail ingredient icon for the French 75 cocktail
Lemon Juice
Gin cocktail ingredient icon for the French 75 cocktail
Gin
Sugar Syrup cocktail ingredient icon for the French 75 cocktail
Sugar Syrup
Champagne / prosecco cocktail ingredient icon for the French 75 cocktail
Champagne / prosecco
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

The French 75 is a symphony of sophistication, seamlessly blending the sharp, refreshing tartness of lemon with the herbal complexity of gin. The effervescent sparkle of champagne not only elevates the brightness of the citrus but also bridges the robust sweetness of the sugar syrup, crafting a celebratory drink that's as articulate in its flavor as it is in its luxurious presentation.

Method
How to make a French 75

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Stir the sugar syrup, lemon juice and gin into an ice-filled mixing glass
Strain into a champagne flute and top up with champagne
Garnish with a lemon slice and serve

Power tips
Elevate the French 75 with these master mixologist tips

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Use fresh, cold-pressed lemon juice for the brightest and most authentic citrus flavor.
For added complexity, consider using an herb-infused simple syrup, like rosemary or lavender.
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French 75 masterclass

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Deep dive into the French 75 cocktail

In the world of cocktails, few drinks are as elegant and historically rich as the French 75. This de...

Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Stir  ·  Strain  ·  Garnish  · 

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Comments

Simon avatar
Simon

Love it! Prosecco de luxe

🥳 1
Make me a cocktail avatar
Make me a cocktail

Yeah just so simple, yet elevates the normal prosecco and adds an intriguing twist!

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the history behind the French 75 cocktail?

The French 75 cocktail has a storied history that traces back to World War I. Named after the French 75mm field gun, which was known for its power and precision, the cocktail is said to have the same punch as the artillery. It was first created in Paris, and the combination of gin, champagne, lemon juice, and sugar was meant to cater to American soldiers stationed in France. The exact origin is a bit murky, but the cocktail is often associated with the famous barman Harry MacElhone, who popularized it at his New York Bar in Paris in the early 20th century.

Faq icon

Can I use other spirits instead of gin in a French 75?

Traditionally, the French 75 is made with gin as its base spirit. However, you can substitute gin with other spirits like vodka or cognac if you prefer. Using vodka will make a smoother drink, while cognac will give it a richer, more rounded flavor. The key is to maintain the balance between the strength of the spirit and the other ingredients to preserve the character of the cocktail.

Non alcoholic variations icon

Is there a non-alcoholic version of the French 75?

Yes, there is a non-alcoholic version of the French 75, often called a 'French 75 Mocktail'. To make it, replace the gin with a non-alcoholic spirit or seedlip and use a non-alcoholic sparkling wine or a sparkly grape juice instead of champagne or prosecco. Keep the lemon juice and sugar syrup for that authentic French 75 taste. This version allows everyone to enjoy the celebratory feel of the original cocktail without alcohol.

Faq icon

What is the best champagne or prosecco to use in a French 75?

For a French 75, you want to use a dry (Brut) champagne or prosecco to balance the sweetness of the sugar syrup and the tartness of the lemon juice. A quality Brut champagne will give the cocktail a crisp, refined edge, while a good prosecco can make the drink a bit lighter and fruitier. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference and the desired final taste of the cocktail.

Faq icon

How important is the glass choice for serving a French 75?

Serving a French 75 in a champagne glass is not just about tradition; it also enhances the drinking experience. The tall, narrow shape of the champagne glass (flute) helps preserve the carbonation of the champagne or prosecco, ensuring that the cocktail maintains its effervescence. Moreover, the elegant presentation of the drink in a champagne flute adds to the overall enjoyment and celebration feeling that the French 75 embodies.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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