Ah, the French 75—a cocktail that feels like a celebration in a glass. Imagine sipping this bubbly concoction on a sun-dappled Parisian terrace, the effervescence dancing on your tongue, while the world hums around you. Whether you’re toasting a special occasion or simply elevating a Tuesday evening, this recipe—and its delightful variations—offers a taste of effortless elegance that’s hard to resist.
Steps
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes to prepare it for mixing.
- Pour gin, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and simple syrup into the shaker.
- Shake the mixture well until it is thoroughly chilled.
- Strain the chilled mixture into a Champagne flute or a coupe glass.
- Top the cocktail with chilled Champagne.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon peel and serve.
Ingredients
- Gin: 1 ounce (such as Hendrick’s, St. George Botanivore, or Koval Dry Gin)
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: 1/2 ounce
- Simple syrup: 1/2 ounce (made from equal parts sugar and water)
- Brut Champagne: 2 ounces (chilled)
Nutritional Values
Calories: N/A | Total Fat: 0g | Saturated Fat: 0g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: N/A | Total Carbohydrates: N/A | Dietary Fiber: 0g | Sugars: N/A | Protein: 0g
FAQ
- What ingredients are needed for a French 75 cocktail?
- To prepare a classic French 75, you’ll need gin, freshly squeezed lemon juice, simple syrup, and Champagne. A lemon twist can be used as a garnish.
- Can I use other spirits instead of gin in a French 75?
- Yes, you can substitute gin with cognac if you prefer a different flavor profile in your French 75 cocktail.
- Is it necessary to use expensive Champagne for a French 75?
- While using a high-quality Champagne can enhance the flavor, it’s not necessary to spend a lot. A brut Champagne is recommended as it’s not too dry nor too sweet and should be chilled before use.
- What are some variations for a French 75 cocktail?
- Besides swapping gin for cognac, you can also substitute Champagne with other dry sparkling wines, such as Cava or Prosecco, which can be cost-effective alternatives.
- How is a French 75 cocktail prepared?
- To make a French 75, fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Shake until chilled, then strain into a Champagne flute or coupe glass. Top with Champagne and garnish with a lemon twist.
Tips
- Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. It adds a bright, fresh citrus note that bottled juice can’t match.
- Preparing homemade simple syrup is quick and easy, taking just a few minutes with equal parts of sugar and water. It offers a cleaner, fresher sweetness compared to store-bought versions.
- Opt for a decent-quality brut Champagne or other dry sparkling wine like Cava or Prosecco. These options will enhance the cocktail’s flavor without being overly sweet, and they are often more affordable.
- Ensure that the Champagne or sparkling wine is well chilled before adding it to the cocktail. This will help maintain the refreshing, fizzy character of the drink.
Equipment
- Cocktail Shaker
- Champagne Flutes or Coupe Glasses
- Citrus Juicer (for fresh lemon juice)
- Bar Strainer (if not included with the cocktail shaker)
