Named after the French made 75-millimetre guns used during World War I, the French 75 Cocktail was said to have a combination of ingredients that deliver a strong kick as if the imbiber was hit by the powerful gun.
The French 75, or the soixante quinze, was originally made with Cognac but in more recent times, it has become popular to use gin. The drink is a combination of gin, lemon juice and simple syrup, shaken with ice and topped with Champagne.
The French 75 is refreshing, light, a little tart and sparkling, a versatile drink to make when entertaining guests. It makes a great brunch cocktail, goes down easily in the afternoon and adds a festive touch as a sparkling drink to celebrate New Year’s Eve.
French 75 Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 45 ml gin
- 25 ml fresh lemon juice
- 20 ml simple syrup
- champagne or sparkling wine to top
Glassware: champagne flute
Garnish: lemon twist
Method
In a cocktail shaker filled with ice add gin, syrup and lemon juice. Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled champagne flute. Top with champagne or sparkling wine and stir gently. Garnish with a lemon twist.