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French 75 Cocktail Recipe

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Last Updated on June 12, 2023 by Leah Hall

The French 75 cocktail recipe is a classic champagne with gin. This light and bubbly drink is so flavorful and tasty!

 

Like many classic cocktails, the French 75’s origin has some mystery. According to drink historian David Wondrich, the recipe first appeared in 1927 in a book called “Here’s How” published by a New York humor magazine. The cocktail was put into the pages of Harry Craddock’s “The Savoy Cocktail Book,” in 1930, which moved the French 75 into bars and homes around the world.

 

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How it was invented is even less clear than that. It’s likely it was from cocktail experimentation. Drinks in the 19th and early 20th centuries were known to combine gin and Champagne. Both of these ingredients are perfect with lemon juice and sugar. When all these ingredients combined, it made the French 75 a classic.

French 75 cocktail in coupe with lemon peel and gold bar tools

It’s sophisticated and refreshing, even has been seen served over ice, which I think has it’s appeal, and will have to try that ASAP! Being tangy from the lemon, bubbly from the wine, and a little bit botanical from the gin, it can make special occasions more festive! It’s a great cocktail for entertaining, you can serve it for brunch or for a dinner party, or just for toasting!

 

What is a French 75?

A French 75 cocktail recipe is made with gin, lemon juice, champagne and simple syrup. The gin has been rumored to be replaced with cognac, and you can use any sparkling wine in place of the champagne.

French 75 cocktail in coupe with lemon peel and gold bar tools

Noting above, it’s possible the first French 75’s used cognac. Cognac and Champagne also get along well, and some cocktail books have cognac as the base spirit. Both spirits make an excellent French 75, so mix whichever version you prefer. We will have some more ideas for you, too, as we love this fresh combo!

French 75 Ingredients

  • Simple Syrup: Simple syrup is the sweetener in this cocktail, which is so easy to make homemade.
  • Gin: You can use a basic London dry gin, like Tanqueray or Beefeater.  Any gin will do, but make sure to use one that you like, floral gins do really well in this.  (Again, Cognac as the base is a choice, too).
  • Champagne: Brut champagne is the best choice, as it will balance the sweetness. The classic recipe does call for Champagne, but you can use any kind of sparkling wine. Prosecco and Cava are good choices, as long as they are dry.

French 75 cocktail in coupe with lemon peel and gold bar tools

Non-Alcoholic French 75

It can be done! You can substitute a non-alcoholic wine, sparkling cider or grape juice for the champagne. Gin can be replaced with a dash of tonic water and a few dashes of cocktail bitters, to give the botanical flavors. And of course, use lemon juice and simple syrup as in the original recipe. This is a great option for those that aren’t drinking, and can be easily made for a special occasion for all!

 

Make our Strawberry Mimosa or Cognac French 75, too!

French 75 cocktail in coupe with lemon peel and gold bar tools

Cheers!

 

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Like this recipe? Try these below, too!

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Death in the Afternoon

 

Other Champagne Cocktails

French 75 cocktail in coupe with lemon peel and gold bar tools
Yield: 1

French 75 Cocktail Recipe

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

This French 75 cocktail recipe is a classic for a reason, and easy to make with just 4 ingredients.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Combine gin, lemon juice and simple syrup in shaker with ice.
  2. Shake and strain into champagne flute or coupe.
  3. Top with Champange.
  4. Garnish with a lemon peel if desired.
  5. Cheers!

Notes

London Dry Gin is best in this we think, but a floral gin is also a great choice.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

1

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 188Total Fat: .1gSodium: 13mgCarbohydrates: 13gFiber: .1gSugar: .3gProtein: .1g

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