Discover the timeless charm of the French 75 cocktail. This elegant drink, made from gin, lemon juice, sugar, and Champagne, has a rich history dating back to World War I. With its refreshing sparkle and citrus notes, the French 75 is perfect for any celebration.
Equipment
To prepare a French 75, you’ll need a few key pieces of equipment:
- Cocktail shaker: For mixing the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Strainer: To pour the mixture into the glass without ice.
- Champagne flute: The traditional glass for serving.
- Measuring jigger: Ensures precise measurements.
- Lemon zester or peeler: For the lemon twist garnish.
Having the right tools ensures you can create a well-balanced and visually appealing cocktail.
Ingredients
You’ll need the following ingredients to make a French 75:
- 2 oz gin (London Dry for a classic taste)
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Champagne or sparkling wine to top
- Lemon twist for garnish
These ingredients blend together to create a drink that’s both tart and refreshing.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make a perfect French 75:
- Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake until the mixture is well-chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled Champagne flute.
- Top with Champagne or sparkling wine.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
Serve immediately to enjoy the full effervescence of the drink.
Tasting Notes
The French 75 is crisp, refreshing, and effervescent. The gin provides a botanical backbone, while the lemon juice adds tartness. Simple syrup balances the acidity. Champagne adds bubbles and a light touch of sweetness. The lemon twist garnish offers a burst of citrus aroma. Overall, the cocktail is light, zesty, and perfect for festive occasions.
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy the French 75, you might also like these similar cocktails:
- Tom Collins: Gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water.
- French 76: Vodka, replacing gin, with the same other ingredients.
- Mimosa: Equal parts Champagne and orange juice.
- Kir Royale: Crème de Cassis topped with Champagne.
These drinks share a refreshing profile and use sparkling elements.
History
The French 75 dates back to World War I. It was named after the French 75-millimeter field gun, known for its powerful and quick action. The first official recipe was published in the Savoy Cocktail Book in 1930. Originally crafted at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, it has endured as a beloved classic cocktail.
Quick Pro Tips
Here are some tips to perfect your French 75:
- Use fresh lemon juice: Avoid bottled juice for the best flavor.
- Chill your glass: A cold glass keeps the cocktail refreshing.
- Don’t over-shake: You want the mixture chilled, not diluted.
- Use quality Champagne: Use a dry, good-quality Champagne or sparkling wine.
When to Serve
The French 75 is versatile for many occasions. It’s perfect for:
- Brunch: Its lightness pairs well with morning meals.
- New Year’s Eve: Ideal for toasts and celebrations.
- Weddings: Elegant and sophisticated for special toasts.
- Cocktail parties: A crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make in batches.
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