In the world of cocktails, few drinks are as elegant and historically rich as the French 75. This de...
French 75Cocktail recipe
Rating
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Cocktail Colin says:
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
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- Stir the sugar syrup, lemon juice and gin into an ice-filled mixing glass
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- Strain into a champagne flute and top up with champagne
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- Garnish with a lemon slice and serve
Power tips
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Find out more- 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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FAQ's
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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Comments
Love it! Prosecco de luxe
Yeah just so simple, yet elevates the normal prosecco and adds an intriguing twist!
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