French 75 is a timeless cocktail that pairs bright lemon with botanical gin and the effervescence of champagne. Perfect for parties, New Year’s Eve, brunches, bridal showers, and other celebrations.
French 75 Cocktail
The French 75 is a simple, elegant cocktail that highlights fresh ingredients. Light and refreshing, it combines gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and sparkling wine. Its bright citrus and botanical notes make it a favorite for celebratory gatherings and casual brunches alike.
What is a French 75?
The French 75 is a classic champagne cocktail made from gin, simple syrup, lemon juice, and sparkling wine. Many consider it a bubbly twist on the Tom Collins, swapping club soda for champagne to create a more festive drink.
Why is it called a French 75?
The cocktail dates back to 1915 at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris. It reportedly got its name because the drink had such a kick that it felt like being hit by the French 75mm field gun, known for its power during World War I.
Which sparkling wine should you use?
Traditionally made with Brut Champagne, the French 75 is flexible: use Champagne, Prosecco, or Cava depending on preference and budget. Choose a dry or off-dry sparkling wine so the drink remains crisp rather than overly sweet.
Difference between Champagne, Prosecco, and Cava
All three are sparkling wines from different regions: Champagne is from France, Prosecco from Italy, and Cava from Spain. Each has distinct production methods and flavor profiles, but any can work in this cocktail.
The French 75 is an attractive, straightforward cocktail that shines when made with fresh, quality ingredients. It’s not necessary to use the most expensive bottle, but avoid very cheap sparkling wines. Fresh lemon juice and a gin you enjoy are essential since the recipe is simple and each ingredient is prominent.
What you’ll need
- Champagne flutes: Serve the cocktail in flutes to preserve the bubbles and present it elegantly.
- Cocktail shaker: Use a shaker to mix the gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and ice.
- Lemon peeler or zester: A neat lemon twist is the classic garnish for a French 75.
Recipe
French 75 Cocktail
Ingredients
- Ice
- 1/2 oz. lemon juice (fresh)
- 1/2 oz. simple syrup (or 1 tsp superfine sugar)
- 2 oz. gin
- 3 oz. chilled champagne (or other sparkling wine)
- Lemon rind twist for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add lemon juice, simple syrup, and gin.
- Shake until well chilled, then strain into a chilled champagne flute.
- Top with chilled champagne and gently stir once if needed to combine.
- Garnish with a lemon twist and serve immediately.
Notes
To keep lemon twists curled, place them in the freezer for 5–10 minutes. Substitute simple syrup with 1 teaspoon superfine sugar if desired. For a stronger drink, increase the gin by 1 ounce.
Nutrition (approx.)
Calories: 213 kcal | Carbohydrates: 12 g | Sugar: 11 g | Sodium: 14 mg
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This post was originally published December 2014 and updated December 2017.