French 75
cocktailginsourfruitysweet

French 75

The French 75 is a wonderful champagne cocktail that can be made with either gin or cognac, and  lemon or  lime juice.

5 min
medium
coupe glass

Ingredients

  • 1 oz gin (or cognac)
  • 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • Top with champagne (about 3 oz)
  • lemon twist
Garnish: lemon twist

Instructions

  1. 1

    Add the first 3 ingredients to your shaker

  2. 2

    Shake hard for 10-15 seconds

  3. 3

    Fine strain into a flute glass

  4. 4

    Top with champagne

  5. 5

    Add the garnish

Pro Tip

For an extra touch of elegance, chill your champagne flute in the freezer for a few minutes before serving. It keeps the drink colder longer and adds a frosty touch to your presentation.

The Story Behind the French 75

The French 75 cocktail dates back to World War I and is named after the French 75mm field gun, known for its powerful kick. This elegant drink was first created at the New York Bar in Paris, which later became the famous Harry's New York Bar. Its combination of gin, lemon juice, and champagne makes it a timeless classic, perfect for celebrations.

What Pairs Well

Food Pairings

  • 🍽️
    Oysters Rockefeller

    The briny, rich flavors of oysters complement the crisp, citrusy notes of the French 75.

  • 🍽️
    Goat Cheese Tartlets

    The creamy, tangy goat cheese pairs beautifully with the cocktail's bright, bubbly profile.

  • 🍽️
    Lemon Sorbet

    A refreshing lemon sorbet enhances the citrus elements of the French 75, making for a delightful palate cleanser.

Perfect For

  • New Year's Eve Celebration

    The effervescence of champagne in a French 75 makes it the perfect toast for ringing in the New Year.

  • Brunch with Friends

    This cocktail's light and refreshing nature makes it an ideal choice for a leisurely brunch gathering.

  • Garden Party

    The French 75's elegant presentation and refreshing taste make it a hit at any outdoor garden party.

  • Wedding Toast

    With its sophisticated blend of flavors, the French 75 is a classy choice for a memorable wedding toast.

Fun Facts

  • The French 75 was originally made with cognac, but gin became the more popular choice over time.

  • This cocktail was featured in the classic film 'Casablanca,' adding to its timeless allure.

  • The French 75 is sometimes referred to as a '75 Cocktail' or simply a 'Soixante Quinze' in French.

Make This Drink with Tom or Tina

Watch our bartenders mix it up with fun animations!