The French 75 is a sparkling cocktail with a long, glamorous history dating back to World War I Paris. Named after the powerful French 75mm field gun, it delivers a bright, effervescent punch that perfectly balances the botanical complexity of gin with fresh lemon brightness and the celebratory fizz of Champagne. The sugar syrup rounds out any sharp edges, creating a drink that is simultaneously elegant and lively. It is a natural choice for brunch, celebrations, or any occasion that calls for something special. Serve it in a chilled Champagne flute to preserve the bubbles and keep the drink cold, garnished with a long lemon twist that adds a fragrant citrus note with every sip.

Ingredients

Cocktail

• 1.5 oz gin (London dry style recommended, such as Tanqueray or Beefeater)
• 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• 3 oz Champagne or dry sparkling wine, chilled
• Ice for shaking
• Lemon twist for garnish

Simple Syrup (if making from scratch)

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water

Directions

Simple Syrup

1. Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir until sugar is fully dissolved, about 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool completely before using.
4. Store in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to one month.

Cocktail

1. Chill a Champagne flute in the freezer for at least 10 minutes before serving.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
5. Strain into the chilled Champagne flute.
6. Top slowly with chilled Champagne or sparkling wine, pouring gently down the side of the glass to preserve the bubbles.
7. Garnish with a long lemon twist, expressed over the glass to release the oils, then draped over the rim.

Tips and variations

• Cognac swap: The original pre-Prohibition version of this cocktail was made with Cognac rather than gin. Swapping in a VS or VSOP Cognac creates a richer, warmer version with stone fruit and vanilla notes.
• Sparkling wine options: Prosecco makes a slightly sweeter, softer version. Cava is a budget-friendly alternative that works beautifully.
• Honey syrup variation: Replace simple syrup with honey syrup (1 part honey to 1 part warm water) for a floral, more complex sweetness.
• Batch for a crowd: Combine gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a pitcher ahead of time and refrigerate. Pour individual portions into flutes and top with sparkling wine just before serving.
• Lavender French 75: Use lavender-infused simple syrup for a fragrant, floral twist that pairs especially well with a floral gin like Hendricks.
• Non-alcoholic version: Use a non-alcoholic gin alternative, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling wine for a beautiful mocktail version.

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