French 75 Cocktail
French 75 Cocktail
The French 75 Cocktail is a classic and elegant drink that is said to have originated during World War I. It is believed to have been named after the French 75mm field gun, which was known for its powerful and deadly firepower. This cocktail gained popularity among the soldiers in France and was often enjoyed by officers and high-ranking officials.
The exact origin of the French 75 Cocktail is somewhat disputed, with multiple theories surrounding its creation. One story suggests that it was first concocted by a bartender at the New York Bar in Paris, later known as Harry's New York Bar, which was a popular gathering spot for American and British expatriates during the war.
Another theory suggests that the French 75 Cocktail was created at the Hotel Chatham in Paris. This renowned hotel was known for its glamorous atmosphere and was frequented by the elite during the early 20th century. It's believed that the cocktail was initially crafted as a celebratory drink to mark the end of the war.
The French 75 Cocktail gained further fame when it was included in Harry MacElhone's book, "Harry's ABC of Mixing Cocktails," published in 1922. This helped popularize the drink among cocktail enthusiasts around the world.
Regardless of its exact origin, the French 75 Cocktail remains a beloved classic that combines the elegance of champagne with the sharpness of gin, creating a refreshing and potent beverage.
Ingredients
Instructions
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STIR powdered sugar with lemon juice in base of shaker until sugar dissolves
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Add gin, SHAKE with ice and fine strain into chilled glass
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TOP with champagne and lightly stir
Note
- Use fresh ingredients: A French 75 Cocktail is best when made with fresh lemon juice and high-quality gin. Avoid using bottled mixes or low-quality spirits.
- Balance the flavors: Achieve the perfect balance between sweet, sour, and bitter flavors in your cocktail. The French 75 typically has a tangy and citrusy taste from the lemon juice, balanced with a touch of sweetness from simple syrup or sugar.
- Chill the ingredients: Ensure that the gin, lemon juice, and even the glasses are properly chilled before preparing the cocktail. This helps to maintain the refreshing and crisp nature of the drink.
- Properly measure the ingredients: Be precise when measuring your ingredients to maintain consistency and achieve the desired flavor profile. A cocktail jigger or measuring tools can assist in accurately pouring each component.
- Shake it up: The French 75 is traditionally shaken with ice to create a frothy and well-mixed drink. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to incorporate the flavors and properly chill the cocktail.
- Serve in a chilled glass: Strain the contents of the shaker into a chilled coupe or champagne flute. Chilling the glass beforehand helps to keep the cocktail cold and enhances the overall experience.
- Garnish delicately: Finish off your French 75 with a delicate lemon twist or a small lemon zest. This simple garnish adds a touch of aroma and visual appeal.
- Experiment with variations: While the French 75 is a classic cocktail, don't be afraid to try different variations. For example, substituting the gin with vodka can create a variation known as a French 76.
- Enjoy responsibly: Remember to savor your cocktail responsibly, especially when it contains alcohol. Do not consume in excess and always drink in moderation.