French 75 Recipe: The French 75 is a classic cocktail known for its elegance and light, refreshing flavor, combining gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and champagne.
First made popular in the 1920s, the French 75 is said to have been named after the French 75mm field gun used in World War I, symbolizing its powerful effect.
This guide walks you through each step of making the French 75 at home, offering tips and techniques to ensure a perfect cocktail every time.
Ingredients for a Classic French 75
To make a traditional French 75, you’ll need just a few ingredients. Here’s what to gather:
- 2 oz gin – Choose a high-quality gin with botanical flavors.
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice – Freshly squeezed is key for a crisp, tangy taste.
- 0.5 oz simple syrup – A mix of equal parts sugar and water.
- Champagne – Dry champagne for a bubbly finish; about 3 oz per glass.
- Ice cubes – For shaking and chilling the drink.
Required Equipment
To make a French 75, having the right tools is essential:
- Cocktail shaker – For mixing ingredients together.
- Strainer – To remove ice and any pulp when pouring.
- Champagne flute or coupe glass – A classic French 75 is traditionally served in a flute or coupe.
- Jigger or measuring tool – To measure ingredients accurately.
Step-by-Step French 75 Recipe
Step 1: Chill the Glass
Start by chilling your glassware. A cold glass keeps the cocktail crisp and prevents the champagne from losing its bubbles too quickly. Here are a few ways to chill your glass:
- Place the glass in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
- Fill the glass with ice water and let it sit for a few minutes before discarding the water.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
For a smooth cocktail-making experience, prepare each ingredient before starting. Measure out the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Fresh lemon juice is ideal as it provides a bright, natural acidity. Make sure the champagne is also well-chilled so that it stays fizzy when poured.
Step 3: Mix the Gin and Lemon Juice
In your cocktail shaker, add 2 oz of gin and 0.5 oz of fresh lemon juice. Use a gin with balanced botanical notes to bring out the best flavor in the French 75. The acidity of the lemon juice will complement the gin, creating a refreshing and vibrant base.
Step 4: Add Simple Syrup
Next, add 0.5 oz of simple syrup to the shaker. Adjust the amount if you prefer a slightly sweeter or drier drink. Simple syrup is easy to make at home by dissolving equal parts sugar and water over low heat, then cooling it before use. The syrup binds the citrus and gin, creating a smooth, cohesive taste.
Step 5: Shake the Mixture
Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This step not only blends the ingredients but also chills the cocktail, enhancing the overall drinking experience. A good shake aerates the mixture, giving it a frothy texture that pairs well with the champagne.
Step 6: Strain into the Glass
Strain the gin, lemon juice, and syrup mixture into your pre-chilled champagne flute or coupe glass. Using a fine mesh strainer can help remove any pulp or ice shards, ensuring a smooth finish.
Step 7: Top with Champagne
Pour the champagne over the strained mixture to fill the glass. Aim for around 3 oz or until the glass is full. For the best flavor, choose a dry or brut champagne, as the dryness balances the sweetness from the simple syrup. Adding champagne at the end preserves its bubbles, giving the cocktail its signature effervescence.
Garnishing the French 75
A garnish can elevate your French 75, both in flavor and appearance. Common garnishes include:
- Lemon twist – A twist of lemon peel enhances the citrus notes and adds a touch of elegance.
- Edible flower – For a sophisticated touch, add a small edible flower.
Adding a garnish not only beautifies the drink but also adds a hint of aroma that complements the cocktail’s flavors.
Serving Suggestions
The French 75 is perfect for celebrations, brunches, or as a pre-dinner aperitif. Its refreshing quality pairs well with appetizers like oysters, smoked salmon, and light cheeses.
Tips for Crafting the Perfect French 75
- Balance the sweetness – Adjust the simple syrup to your taste.
- Use fresh lemon juice – This keeps the drink’s flavor crisp.
- Choose quality champagne – The champagne you use will greatly impact the final flavor.
Variations on the Classic French 75
While the traditional recipe calls for gin, here are some fun variations to try:
- French 76 – Replace gin with vodka for a different flavor profile.
- Rosé French 75 – Use sparkling rosé instead of champagne for a floral, fruity twist.
FAQs about French 75 Recipe
What is a French 75?
A French 75 is a classic cocktail made with gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and champagne. It’s refreshing, slightly sweet, and sparkling, making it a perfect choice for celebrations or an elegant evening.
How do you make a French 75 cocktail?
To make a French 75, start by mixing gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well, strain into a champagne flute, then top with chilled champagne. Garnish with a lemon twist for a sophisticated touch.
What type of gin is best for a French 75?
A London dry gin is often recommended for a French 75 because of its bold, juniper-forward flavor that complements the lemon and champagne. However, you can experiment with different gins to suit your preference.
Can you make a French 75 without gin?
Yes, while gin is traditional, some variations use cognac for a richer, deeper flavor. This twist offers a unique take on the French 75, often called a “French 125.”
Is French 75 strong?
The French 75 is moderately strong due to the gin base and champagne. However, the champagne’s effervescence and lemon juice balance the alcohol, creating a refreshing and easy-to-drink cocktail.
Can I make a French 75 in advance?
While it’s best served fresh to preserve the champagne’s bubbles, you can mix the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in advance and refrigerate it. When ready, simply add champagne to serve.
Conclusion
Crafting a French 75 at home is a delightful way to bring a bit of elegance to any gathering. By following each step, you’ll achieve a cocktail that’s both refreshing and timeless. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations to make this classic drink your own.
