Last Updated on August 14, 2024 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.
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.
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.
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!
Cheers!
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Like this recipe? Try these below, too!
Other Champagne Cocktails
- Champagne Cocktail – Celebrating Sweets
- Bellini Cocktail
- Christmas Cranberry Champagne Cocktails – Seasoned Sprinkles
- Thanksgiving Champagne Cocktail
- Death in the Afternoon
French 75 Cocktail Recipe
This French 75 cocktail recipe is a classic for a reason, and easy to make with just 4 ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 ounce gin
- .50 ounce lemon juice
- .50 ounce simple syrup
- 3 ounces Champagne
Instructions
- Combine gin, lemon juice and simple syrup in shaker with ice.
- Shake and strain into champagne flute or coupe.
- Top with Champange.
- Garnish with a lemon peel if desired.
- Cheers!
Notes
London Dry Gin is best in this we think, but a floral gin is also a great choice.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield:
1Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 188Total Fat: .1gSodium: 13mgCarbohydrates: 13gFiber: .1gSugar: .3gProtein: .1g
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