Gooseberry and Elderflower French 75 Cocktail recipe
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Gooseberry and Elderflower French 75 is a bright, fruit-led twist on the French 75 template: gin lengthened with sparkling wine and sharpened with citrus. While the original French 75 is a long-standing classic, this variation leans into modern garden flavours, keeping the drink’s celebratory, aperitif feel while swapping in floral sweetness and fresh berry character for a more summery profile.
You’ll find dry gin brings a crisp backbone that plays neatly with the lift of Champagne or prosecco. Lemon juice adds a clean, zesty snap, and the elderflower syrup smooths that acidity with perfumed sweetness. Gooseberries contribute a tart, green-fruit edge that echoes the lemon while adding a distinctive, juicy bite, so the overall balance lands between bright citrus, gentle florals, and bracing berry tang.
Serve it when you want something sparkling but not one-note—ideal for toasts, garden parties, or a pre-dinner opener. If you like gin drinks that feel light and refreshing yet still structured, this hits the mark, especially for anyone who enjoys citrus-forward cocktails with a floral finish.
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Champagne glass
Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
Dry gin leads with crisp botanicals, brightened by lemon juice and lifted by tart, juicy gooseberries, while elderflower syrup adds a perfumed sweetness that softens the edges before Champagne/prosecco brings a brisk, bubbling finish. It works because the citrus and gooseberry tang keep the elderflower from turning cloying and the bubbles lighten the gin’s structure, ideal for fans of floral-fruit spritzes and celebratory, refreshing sours.
Method
How to make a Gooseberry and Elderflower French 75
- Dry gin 50ml (Wood Bros Dry Gin), Champagne / prosecco Top up, Elderflower syrup 25ml, Lemon juice 15ml, Gooseberries 6
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- Muddle the gooseberries in a cocktail shaker then add all ingredients except the champagne
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- Shake with ice then double strain into a champagne flute
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- Top with champagne then garnish with 2 gooseberries on a cocktail stick
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Find out more- Muddle gooseberries gently to extract their juices without smashing them completely, preserving a bit of texture in the drink.
- Use a high-quality dry gin and a well-chilled champagne or prosecco to ensure a crisp, refreshing finish that balances the elderflower syrup's sweetness.
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FAQ's
Can I use a different kind of berry if I don't have gooseberries?
Yes, you can use other tart berries like raspberries or red currants as a substitute. While the flavor profile will change slightly, these berries will still provide a similar tartness that complements the elderflower syrup.
What are some suggested garnishes for the Gooseberry and Elderflower French 75?
You can garnish this cocktail with a twist of lemon peel or a few fresh gooseberries on a cocktail pick. These garnishes not only enhance the presentation but also add subtle aromatic elements to the drink.
What is the best method to shake the Gooseberry and Elderflower French 75?
To prepare this cocktail, add the dry gin, elderflower syrup, and lemon juice into a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled. Strain the mixture into a champagne glass and top up with chilled champagne or prosecco.
How can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Gooseberry and Elderflower French 75?
To make a non-alcoholic version, substitute the dry gin with a non-alcoholic gin alternative, and use a non-alcoholic sparkling wine instead of champagne or prosecco. The elderflower syrup and lemon juice can remain the same.
What food pairs well with the Gooseberry and Elderflower French 75?
This cocktail pairs well with light and fresh dishes such as seafood, especially oysters or smoked salmon, and salads with citrus-based dressings. It also complements creamy cheeses like goat cheese or brie.
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