French 75: The Champagne Cocktail That's ActuallyWorth Making
French 75: The Champagne Cocktail That's Actually Worth Making
Named after a French 75mm artillery piece for its kick. One of the most elegant and underappreciated cocktails in the canon.
What You Need
- 1 oz London Dry gin — or cognac for the classic French version
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 3 oz Champagne or Prosecco, chilled
Method
- Combine gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
- Shake for 10 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled Champagne flute.
- Top carefully with Champagne — pour slowly down the side of the glass.
- Do not stir — you'll lose the bubbles.
Gin vs. Cognac
The gin version is brighter and more citrus-forward. The cognac version is richer and more traditionally French — it's what they serve at Arnaud's bar in New Orleans. Both are correct. Try both.
Liquor Depot Pick
This is an excellent use for a mid-range Prosecco or Cava. The other ingredients provide enough complexity that you don't need top-shelf bubbles.
