How to Make the Perfect French 75 Cocktail | Recipe & Tips
The French 75 is a classic cocktail that perfectly blends the boldness of gin with the elegance of sparkling wine. Its light, citrusy flavor combined with the effervescence of champagne makes it a sophisticated yet refreshing drink, ideal for special occasions or simply enjoying on a sunny afternoon. In this post, we'll explore the history of the French 75, provide a step-by-step guide on how to make it, and offer tips on food pairings and bartending techniques.
History:
The French 75 cocktail dates back to the early 20th century, named after the French 75mm field gun used during World War I. Its original recipe was developed in 1915 at Harry's New York Bar in Paris and has been a staple of cocktail culture ever since. The combination of gin, lemon, sugar, and champagne was said to have such a kick that it felt like being hit by the French 75 artillery—hence the name!
When I Like to Enjoy the French 75:
One of my favorite times to enjoy a French 75 is at a celebratory brunch. The combination of gin and sparkling wine feels just right for toasting to a special moment, like a birthday or an anniversary. It’s also my go-to cocktail for festive holiday gatherings, as the sparkling bubbles add a touch of class to the occasion.
Recommended Food Pairings:
The French 75 pairs wonderfully with light, fresh foods. Its citrusy brightness makes it a great companion for seafood dishes like oysters, smoked salmon, or shrimp cocktail. You could also enjoy it with a charcuterie board featuring cured meats and cheeses. For something sweet, try serving the French 75 with delicate pastries or macarons to complement its light and bubbly nature.
Where to Enjoy It:
This cocktail is versatile enough to be enjoyed in a variety of settings. Sip on a French 75 at a fancy cocktail bar, or make it the star of a home brunch. It’s also perfect for outdoor summer parties, weddings, or intimate dinner parties where a sparkling cocktail is sure to impress.
The Ingredients and Recipe:
Brands to Try: For the gin, Hendrick’s or Tanqueray offer smooth botanical flavors that work beautifully in a French 75. For the sparkling wine, opt for Moët & Chandon or a good-quality Prosecco for a more affordable option.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Gin
- 0.5 oz Simple syrup
- 0.5 oz Fresh lemon juice
- 3-4 oz of Sparkling wine
- Spiraled lemon peel for garnish
Bartending Techniques Used:
The French 75 is a cocktail that uses a few essential bartending techniques:
- Shaking: The gin, simple syrup, and lemon juice are shaken with ice to blend and chill the ingredients.
- Double Straining: After shaking, the cocktail is strained through both a Hawthorne and fine strainer to remove any ice shards or pulp, resulting in a smooth drink.
- Expressing Oils: Before garnishing, the oils from a lemon peel are expressed over the drink, adding a bright citrus aroma.
Riff’s on the Classic:
The French 75 is a cocktail ripe for experimentation. You can swap the gin for vodka to create a cleaner version or even use cognac for a richer, more robust flavor. For a fruitier twist, try adding a splash of raspberry liqueur or a berry puree. You could also use Rosé champagne instead of traditional sparkling wine for a fun, pink variation.
Conclusion:
The French 75 is a cocktail that brings elegance and a celebratory feel to any occasion. Whether you're enjoying it at brunch, pairing it with fresh seafood, or serving it at a dinner party, this bubbly cocktail never fails to impress. With its classic ingredients and versatile variations, the French 75 is sure to become a favorite in your cocktail repertoire.
