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French 75 cocktail
Alcoholic Ordinary Drink Collins glass Medium

French 75

The French 75 is a sparkling cocktail that combines the botanical notes of gin with the zesty brightness of lemon juice and the effervescence of Champagne. It's a refreshing and sophisticated drink, perfect for celebrations and special occasions.

6 Ingredients
10 min Prep Time
Collins glass Glass
Chilled Best Served
refreshing sour sweet

Ingredients

  • Gin spirit 45 ml (1.5 oz)
  • Superfine Sugar syrup 2 tsp
  • Lemon Juice juice 45 ml (1.5 oz)
  • Chilled Champagne mixer 120 ml (4 oz)
  • Orange garnish 1 slice
  • Maraschino Cherry garnish 1 cherry

How to Make a French 75

Combine gin, sugar, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled champagne glass. Top up with Champagne. Stir gently.

Bartender Tip

💡

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.

History of the French 75

Named after the French 75mm field gun used during World War I, this cocktail was first created in the 1910s and has become a classic in cocktail culture.

About the French 75

The French 75 is a ordinary drink that belongs to the alcoholic family of cocktails. It is traditionally prepared with Gin, Sugar, Lemon juice and served in a Collins glass.

Best enjoyed during celebrations, at brunch, at parties.

As with all alcoholic beverages, please enjoy this cocktail responsibly.

IBA ContemporaryClassic

Did You Know?

The French 75 was famously served at the legendary New York bar, Harry's New York Bar, which is known for its connection to many classic cocktails.

French 75 Variations

Elderflower French 75 This variation incorporates elderflower liqueur for a floral twist, enhancing the cocktail's complexity. Swap: Replace 1/2 oz of gin with elderflower liqueur.
French 76 The French 76 substitutes vodka for gin, offering a smoother and slightly different flavor profile. Swap: Replace gin with vodka.

Pairs Well With

Oysters Shrimp cocktail Lemon tart

Quick Facts

~150
Calories
Medium
Strength
10 min
Prep Time

Common Mistake

A common mistake is over-shaking the cocktail, which can dilute the flavors and reduce the effervescence of the Champagne.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the French 75 cocktail?

The French 75 cocktail originated during World War I and is named after the French 75mm field gun, which was known for its speed and power. The drink combines gin, lemon juice, sugar, and Champagne, creating a refreshing and celebratory beverage.

Can I use a different type of sparkling wine instead of Champagne?

Yes, you can substitute Champagne with other sparkling wines such as Prosecco or Cava. However, using Champagne adds a unique complexity and depth of flavor that is characteristic of the French 75.

Why is superfine sugar preferred in the French 75?

Superfine sugar dissolves more easily than regular granulated sugar, which helps to create a smoother texture in the cocktail. This is especially important when mixing with lemon juice and gin, ensuring that the sweetness is well-integrated.

Is it possible to make a non-alcoholic version of the French 75?

Absolutely! You can create a non-alcoholic version by replacing gin with a non-alcoholic gin alternative and using a sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling wine instead of Champagne. This way, you can enjoy the refreshing flavors without the alcohol.

What garnishes work best for a French 75 cocktail?

The classic garnish for a French 75 is a twist of orange peel, which complements the citrus notes of the drink. A Maraschino cherry can also be added for a touch of color and sweetness, enhancing the overall presentation.

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