What comes to your mind when you think of a cocktail with bright citrus flavour and served in a champagne flute? It could be no other than the French 75. This classic champagne cocktail is a beautiful amalgamation of lemon juice, cognac, or gin and has quite many takers. Generally served with a lemon twist or cherry, this cocktail could be commonly seen at weddings and other celebrations. This cocktail was earlier made using cognac but gin has completely taken over its place. But do you know how this amazing cocktail got its name?
The OG French 75, is said to be created somewhere around World War 1. Yes, you read that right. If some experts are to be believed, this cocktail is named after a French military’s M1897 rapid-fire 75 mm artillery gun that was used during the war. A British Army Officer named George Clappison was believed to be stationed in France at this time. It was he who made this less potent cocktail. When the soldiers returned to their home, they brought the recipe along and since then, there has been no looking back. The cocktail gained popularity at a bar in New York City. Some legends also claim that this champagne-based cocktail was invented somewhere in the 1920s by a barman Harry at New York Bar in Paris and was originally called 75th Infantry. No matter how this cocktail came into existence, there is nothing that could replace it. You can make this cocktail by following these simple steps!
Ingredients
- 1 to 2 ounces of gin or cognac (whatever you like)
- 1 tsp simple syrup
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 to 4 ounces of champagne
- Lemon zest for garnish
Method
- Take a cocktail shaker and add ice cubes.
- Add a portion of cognac or gin. Add in simple syrup and lemon juice.
- Shake well.
- Now, take a chilled champagne flute and fill it half with ice.
- Pour the cocktail mixture and slowly fill the champagne.
- Garnish the drink with lemon zest and enjoy!
Some tips to remember:
- One can totally skip the ice but the French 75 is generally served like that most of the time.
- The original French 75 recipe was designed specifically for cognac. But one can switch to gin as it gained popularity over time.
- You can also replace gin or cognac with vodka.
Let us know if French 75 is and will always remain your favourite!