French 75 cocktail
The French 75 is a classic champagne cocktail made with gin, lemon juice and a fresh, dry character. This refreshing mix is known for its lively style and is a popular choice as a festive aperitif or an elegant cocktail for special occasions.
What is a French 75 cocktail?
The French 75 is a refreshing cocktail in which lemon juice and gin are combined with sparkling champagne. The result is a crisp and lively drink, perfect for festive moments or as an elegant aperitif.
The cocktail originated during World War I and is named after the powerful French 75 mm field gun. The combination of gin, lemon juice, sugar and champagne was considered so strong and impactful that its effect was compared to the force of this famous cannon.
The French 75 remains a stylish classic that is often served at elegant gatherings, brunches and other special occasions.
What do you need?
To make a classic French 75, you only need a small selection of fresh and well-balanced ingredients.
Ingredients
- 30 ml gin
- 15 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 15 ml sugar syrup
- 60 ml champagne, preferably brut
- Ice cubes
- A thin lemon twist for garnish
For the best result, choose a fresh and dry champagne to keep the cocktail lively and well balanced.
Preparation
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes and add the gin, lemon juice and sugar syrup.
- Shake vigorously until the mixture is well chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into a flute glass or another narrow champagne glass.
- Carefully top up with chilled champagne to preserve the bubbles.
- Garnish with a thin lemon twist and serve immediately.
Serving tips
A French 75 is best enjoyed when all ingredients are well chilled. Use an elegant flute or tulip-shaped glass for a festive presentation and a fine mousse.
For a subtle variation, you can add a few drops of bitters, but keep the cocktail light and crisp so the character of the champagne remains clearly noticeable.
Which champagne works best in a French 75?
For a French 75, it is best to choose a fresh and dry champagne. A brut champagne is particularly suitable, as this style provides enough tension and freshness without making the cocktail too heavy or overly sweet.
A good brut champagne supports the citrus and gin, while the bubbles add elegance and length to the flavour. For the best result, choose a champagne with a lively and well-balanced character.
Our suggestions
-
Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial
A fresh and approachable champagne that is very well suited for creating a classic French 75. -
Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label
Slightly fuller in style, making it an excellent choice for a French 75 with extra depth and character.