French 75 Cocktail Recipe – Mix Like a Pro

The French 75 cocktail is a classic mixology gem. It combines the zing of gin with Champagne’s bubbles. Named after a World War I gun, it adds a punch to your glass.

This drink is easy to make at home. You can even switch sugar for honey in it. This change enhances its flavors, especially with the gin and lemon.

It’s perfect for fancy gatherings or even brunch. And you won’t spend all day making it. In just 5 minutes, you’ll have a reason to celebrate. Read on for the full recipe and tips to become a cocktail master.

Key Takeaways

• The French 75 cocktail is a blend of gin, Champagne, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
• Named after a French field gun from World War I, it combines a strong kick with bubbly refreshment.
• Prep time is a quick 5 minutes, offering an elegant and speedy cocktail option.
• Substituting sugar with honey in the simple syrup adds a unique flavor twist.
• Recommended gins include Hendrick’s, St. George Botanivore, and Koval Dry Gin.

Introduction to the French 75

The French 75 cocktail is known for its mix of lemon and bubbles. It blends the excitement of gin with the classy touch of Brut Champagne. This makes it the perfect choice for any joyful moment that needs a sparkling drink.

The key ingredients for the French 75 are:

1. 1 oz gin
2. ½ oz lemon juice
3. ½ oz simple syrup
4. 2-3 oz chilled Brut Champagne or another dry sparkling wine

The French 75 first became known in 1927 but rose to fame after the 1930 publication of the Savoy Cocktail book. What makes it special is you can change the ingredients. This lets you make endless versions by using different spirits, sweeteners, or adding more like bitters and liqueurs.

This cocktail is great for any occasion, big or small. For parties, you can make a big batch. Just mix 2 cups of gin with 1 cup of lemon juice, 1 ¼ cups of simple syrup, and 2 bottles of Brut Champagne. This will make enough for 16-20 glasses.

There are many fun twists to the French 75, like the Bitter French and the Old Cuban. The Bitter French uses Campari for an interesting flavor. The Old Cuban has rum, mint, and bitters, offering a new and cool taste. These variations prove the French 75 is adaptable while still being a delightful, fizzy cocktail.

The History of the French 75 Cocktail

The French 75 cocktail is from World War I and Harry’s Bar in Paris. It’s named after the French 75-millimeter gun, known for its quick shots. The drink is named this because it also packs quite a punch.

Origin and Name

Harry MacElhone and Henry Tépé mixed the first French 75 at Harry’s Bar in Paris during World War I. It started with gin, apple brandy, grenadine, and lemon juice. It was a colorful delight in a glass.

But, the drink changed over time. New versions added things like lemon juice, powdered sugar, and dry gin. And finally, champagne became a key ingredient too. It was first in a coupe glass. Later, it was served in a flute glass, showing its change in style over the years.

Publication and Recognition

In 1927, the French 75 appeared in the book “Here’s How”. Then, Harry Craddock featured it in “The Savoy Cocktail Book”. These publications made the drink popular.

Originally, the cocktail had cognac but switched to gin. It soon became well-known all over. Even though it’s been called other names, like Soixante-Quinze, it remains iconic. Its story from the First World War and its journey through famous books make it a beloved choice at bars.

French 75 Ingredients: What You Need

A French 75 cocktail mixes top-notch gin and Champagne with lemon juice and simple syrup. Each fresh ingredients brings a unique taste to the drink. Together, they create a drink that’s perfect for any celebration.

Gin

A great French 75 starts with top-quality gin. Look for gins like Beefeater or Hendrick’s for their special flavors. They work well in this classic cocktail. You’ll use 1 ½ ounces of gin for each drink, giving it just the right kick.

Champagne

The sparkle in a French 75 comes from the Champagne. You can pick a bubbly that fits your budget or splurge on something special. The fizz and flavors of the Champagne take this cocktail to the next level.

Lemon Juice

Using fresh lemon juice is key for a true French 75 taste. Freshly squeezed lemons add a bright and lively flavor. A ¾ ounce of lemon juice per drink balances its tartness with the sweetness of the syrup.

Simple Syrup

Making simple syrup is easy and quick. You just heat water with sugar to make it. This simple syrup recipe is enough for five drinks. It adds the perfect amount of sweet to your cocktail.

How to Make a French 75 Cocktail

Making a French 75 cocktail is easy yet elegant. You just need gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and Champagne. It’s perfect for a simple at-home cocktail. Follow these steps for a perfect French 75.

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Use 1 ounce of gin, ½ ounce lemon juice, and ½ ounce simple syrup. It’s best with quality gin, like Hendrick’s or Koval. Always use fresh lemon juice for the tastiest result.
2. Shake the Base: Put the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake for 20 seconds. This cools the mix and makes it smoother.
3. Strain and Pour: Pour the mix into a Champagne flute while straining out the ice. This keeps your cocktail clean and cool.
4. Top with Champagne: Now, add 3 ounces of cold Champagne on top. You can use Cava or Prosecco for a twist.
5. Garnish: Finally, add a lemon twist. It makes your cocktail smell and look amazing.

Making a French 75 is straightforward. Following these steps lets you craft a top-quality cocktail at home. Your friends will think you’re a pro mixologist. Enjoy this classic cocktail that dates back to World War I.

Mixology Tips for a Perfect French 75

Creating a great French 75 is about the ingredients and methods used. We’ll share several mixology tips to make your French 75 stand out.

Proper Shaking Technique

A French 75 needs a hard shake. Shake the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup for 20 seconds. This not only mixes the flavors but also chills and slightly dilutes the drink for a better taste. Getting this cocktail shaker technique right is key to making a balanced French 75.

Straining and Topping

After shaking, strain the mix into a chilled flute glass. Be gentle when adding Champagne on top. This gives the cocktail a beautiful, layered look. Champagne flute presentation defines the drink’s elegance and sophistication.

Garnishing

The last step is to garnish with a twisted lemon peel. When you twist the peel, it releases oils that add an amazing scent. This garnish also makes the drink look beautiful, perfect for any event.

With these mixology tips, from shaking to presentation and garnishing, you can make an outstanding French 75. It will be not just delicious but impressive too.

French 75 Variations to Try

The French 75 cocktail is timeless and open to many changes. It inspires creative spins on the classic mix. We’re exploring unique takes that use different flavors and ingredients for an exciting twist.

Clementine French 75

The Clementine French 75 mixes in clementine juice for a sweet, tart kick. It brings a fresh and fruity twist to the standard mix. It’s perfect for those looking for a refreshing change.

Earl Grey French 75

The Earl Grey French 75 uses Earl Grey syrup for an extra layer of flavor. It adds a hint of smokiness to the mix, making it more complex. If you like unique tastes, this one’s for you.

Classic Cognac Version

The Classic Cognac version is for those who enjoy a deeper taste. It swaps gin for cognac, bringing a richer, more luxurious flavor. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to blend tradition with their cocktail.

When to Serve a French 75

The French 75 cocktail suits many types of gatherings with its blend of gin, Champagne, and citrus. It works well for both big parties and quiet times with friends. This renowned cocktail delights in various scenarios.

Special Occasions

For important events like weddings and anniversaries, the French 75 stands out. It has a sophisticated, bubbly taste. It uses gins like Beefeater or Hendrick’s to craft a special drink for toasting.

There are unique versions to try, such as the Clementine French 75 or Elderflower Champagne Cocktail. These offer different tastes for varying preferences.

Everyday Celebrations

It’s not just for big happenings. The French 75 adds elegance to daily joys, like brunch. It’s quick to make, in about 10 minutes, and is sure to impress. This cocktail is well-loved, with a nearly perfect rating.

Pair it with light brunch items for a tasty combo. If you’re adventurous, explore similar cocktails like the Bee’s Knees or Moscow Mules. This can add new flavors to your get-togethers.

Learn more about crafting the perfect French 75, ensuring each sip is savored fully.

Recommended Tools and Equipment

For the perfect French 75, you need the right tools. These tools make prep easier and ensure taste is always right. Here are the must-have items for a great drink.

Cocktail Shaker

The shaker is key for the French 75. It mixes and cools the ingredients perfectly. By shaking gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup hard with ice, you get a well-mixed, chilled base. This prepares for the Champagne on top. A top-notch shaker means your drink will be top-notch too.

Citrus Juicer

Lemon juice is a main part of this cocktail. A citrus juicer helps get the most juice and flavor from lemons. It keeps the essential oils, making the drink’s taste even better. Using fresh juice makes the cocktail perfect. That’s why a good juicer is a must-have tool.

Stainless Steel Jigger

Exact amounts are key in a French 75. A jigger is used to measure the right gin, lemon juice, and syrup amounts. It ensures each drink follows the same recipe: 1.5 oz of gin, 0.75 oz of lemon juice, and 0.5 oz of syrup. This makes every cocktail right on the spot. Adding a jigger to your set is crucial for mastering the French 75.

With these tools, making a top-notch French 75 is a breeze. Investing in quality tools will really show in your drinks. They help with precise measurements and an excellent drinking experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a French 75 is like creating art, but mixing it wrong could mess it up. It’s important to use good ingredients and the right methods. Here are some issues to dodge when mixing a French 75:

Using the Wrong Gin

Choosing the right gin is key to a perfect French 75. Gins with too much juniper can overpower the cocktail. Look for gins like Beefeater or Hendrick’s for a mix of herbs and flowers. This choice avoids having the gin taste too strong against the Champagne and lemon.

Skipping Fresh Lemon Juice

Don’t use ready-made lemon juice; it changes the cocktail’s taste. Fresh lemon juice brings out a lively sourness that works well with gin and Champagne. By using fresh ingredients, you ensure your French 75 is full of life and not dull.

Expert Secrets to Up Your French 75 Game

To make an amazing French 75 cocktail, you need to know some advanced mixology tricks. It’s all about the details. We’ll show you some expert tips that will make your cocktails better. And you’ll learn what bar tools are essential for mastering these drinks.

Infused Simple Syrups

Customizing your French 75 with infused simple syrups is a game-changer. Using infusions like elderflower or citrus makes your drink unique. Guests will remember the special twist these flavors add. To infuse, simmer your syrup base with herbs or fruits. This picks up the flavors you want.

Quality Over Quantity

The secret to a great cocktail is using top-notch ingredients. Always choose the best spirits, fresh fruit, and quality Champagne. A high-quality gin and fresh lemon juice will really up your French 75 game. This not only makes a better drink but also respects the cocktail’s traditional flavors.

Proper Glassware

How you serve your cocktail matters just as much as how it tastes. A Champagne flute or a coupe glass not only looks good but also captures the drink’s aroma better. This makes the experience of enjoying a French 75 more enjoyable and memorable.

Don’t forget the right tools for mixing. Using a proper jigger for exact measurements is key. It ensures your drinks are always perfect. Paying attention to these small details really refines your cocktail-making skills.

If you’re serious about crafting the perfect cocktail, you should check out this guide on cocktail techniques. It offers tips for everyone, from hobbyists to pro bartenders. You’ll find lots of useful advice for making drinks that impress.

Conclusion

The French 75 cocktail is a masterpiece of mixology. It combines the strong flavors of gin or cognac with bubbly champagne. Add a hint of citrus and the sweetness of simple syrup. This mix has been enjoyed since World War I, making it a classic choice today.

In 1919, bartender “MacGarry” shared this drink in The ABC of Mixing Drinks. It shows how cocktails have been essential in social settings for a long time.

The French 75 was first served with ice but is now often seen without it, in tall champagne glasses. People today enjoy it at weddings and parties. Some still debate whether gin or cognac is best, adding to the charm of the drink. No matter the choice, the mix always brings together strong, sweet, and citrus flavors tastefully.

Learning its history, perfecting its recipe, and trying new tweaks like St. Germain can make it a hit at any gathering. This cocktail keeps its place in the heart of mixology, symbolizing elegance and good times. So, next time you raise a glass, consider the French 75 for a touch of cocktail-making art.