The French 75 is a classic cocktail that marries the elegance of Champagne with the botanical complexity of gin, creating a sparkling, refreshing drink with a punch. First crafted in the 1920s, this cocktail gets its name from the French 75mm field gun used during World War I, a nod to its potent and powerful kick.
With a combination of gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and Champagne, the French 75 is both light and effervescent, yet deceptively strong. It’s the perfect choice for celebrations, brunches, or any occasion where you want something bubbly with a bit more depth than your average glass of sparkling wine.
A Brief History of the French 75
The French 75 cocktail has roots that stretch back to World War I, though its exact origins are debated. The drink is widely believed to have been invented at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris by bartender Harry MacElhone. The combination of ingredients was said to be so powerful it packed the same punch as a French 75mm field gun, a cannon known for its speed and firepower during the war.
By the 1920s, the French 75 had found its way into the United States, where it was popularized in New York’s cocktail scene. Over the years, it became a go-to drink for high-society parties and remains a symbol of elegance and sophistication in modern cocktail culture.
Why the French 75 Stands Out
The French 75’s combination of gin and Champagne sets it apart from other cocktails. Where many sparkling wine-based drinks focus solely on sweetness, the French 75 uses the herbal and juniper notes of gin to provide a more complex flavor profile. The addition of lemon juice brightens the drink, while the simple syrup offers just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tart citrus and bold gin.
Unlike other gin cocktails that may lean heavily on botanicals or sweetness, the French 75’s sparkling component elevates it to a celebratory status. It’s an ideal drink for those looking to enjoy the best of both worlds: the sharpness of a gin cocktail and the effervescence of Champagne.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Given the simplicity of the French 75, the quality of the ingredients is key to making the best version of this cocktail. Here’s how to choose wisely:
1. Gin
The choice of gin in a French 75 can alter the entire experience. A London Dry Gin, with its strong juniper-forward profile, works well with the sweetness of the Champagne and the tartness of lemon. However, if you prefer a more floral or citrus-forward gin, those options can offer a slightly lighter take on the classic recipe.
2. Champagne
Traditionally, the French 75 is made with Champagne, but you can use any good-quality sparkling wine. Prosecco, Cava, or even Crémant can be used as alternatives. Opt for a dry (brut) sparkling wine to ensure the drink remains balanced and not overly sweet.
3. Lemon Juice
As with most citrus cocktails, using freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential. It adds a bright, tangy freshness that pre-bottled lemon juice just can’t replicate.
4. Simple Syrup
Simple syrup is easy to make at home by combining equal parts sugar and water over low heat until the sugar dissolves. The sweetness it adds is subtle but important in balancing the acidity of the lemon juice and the strength of the gin.
Variations on the French 75
While the classic French 75 recipe is a perfect blend of flavors, there are several ways to tweak the cocktail to suit your preferences or to experiment with new flavors. Here are a few variations:
1. Cognac French 75
For a richer, warmer version of the French 75, substitute cognac for gin. The result is a smooth, velvety drink with deeper, more robust flavors that still retains the bright sparkle of Champagne.
2. Elderflower French 75
Adding a dash of elderflower liqueur such as St-Germain can bring a floral sweetness to the French 75. This version is a bit softer and works particularly well for those who enjoy a more delicate, fragrant cocktail.
3. Herbal French 75
Muddling fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or mint in the shaker before adding the other ingredients can give the French 75 an aromatic and refreshing twist. The herbal notes pair beautifully with the citrus and sparkling wine, adding an extra layer of complexity.
4. Berry French 75
To add a fruity element, muddle fresh berries like raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries with the lemon juice and gin. The berry flavors infuse the drink with a subtle sweetness and color that’s both eye-catching and delicious.
Pairing the French 75 with Food
The French 75’s effervescent and citrusy profile makes it an excellent pairing for a variety of foods. Its light, refreshing nature complements many different dishes, from appetizers to desserts.
1. Seafood
The bright acidity of the French 75 pairs perfectly with seafood such as oysters, crab, or shrimp cocktail. The citrus elements in the drink enhance the natural flavors of seafood, while the bubbles in the Champagne cleanse the palate.
2. Light Appetizers
Serve the French 75 with bruschetta, goat cheese crostini, or a charcuterie board. The cocktail’s refreshing qualities balance the richness of these appetizers, making it a great choice for cocktail parties.
3. Desserts
For dessert, pair the French 75 with lemon tarts, macarons, or sorbet. The citrus in the cocktail complements the bright, tangy flavors of the desserts, while the bubbles add an element of fun to the meal’s finale.
The French 75’s Role in Modern Cocktail Culture
In recent years, the French 75 has experienced a resurgence in popularity as part of the craft cocktail movement. Its combination of gin and Champagne makes it a versatile drink that appeals to both gin enthusiasts and those who love sparkling wines. Bartenders today often experiment with new twists on the classic recipe, using different types of gin, flavored syrups, and herbal infusions to give it a fresh, modern feel.
The French 75 is also a popular choice for weddings, brunches, and celebratory events due to its light, bubbly nature. It’s the perfect cocktail for raising a toast, whether you’re celebrating a big milestone or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon.
Conclusion: A Classic with a Sparkle
The French 75 is a cocktail that exudes sophistication, combining the best of both worlds: the complexity of gin and the effervescence of Champagne. With its refreshing citrus notes and subtle sweetness, it’s the perfect drink for any celebration or occasion where you want something light, bubbly, and flavorful. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore one of its many variations, the French 75 is sure to impress and delight you every time. Cheers!
