French 75

What’s the drink?

The French 75 is named for the fast-firing 75 millimeter field gun that was utilized by the French during World War One. Consisting of gin, fresh lemon juice, sugar and Champagne, the drink is a lot friendlier than the name implies.

Like many classic drinks, the French 75’s origin is mired in mystery and debate. According to drinks historian David Wondrich, the recipe first appeared in 1927 at the height of Prohibition in a book called “Here’s How” which was published by a New York magazine. The cocktail was then immortalized in 1930 in the pages of Harry Craddock’s “The Savoy Cocktail Book,” which solidified the French 75’s spread in bars and homes around the world.

Ingredients

1 part (Tanqueray No. Ten) Gin
1 part Lemon Juice
1 tea spoon Caster Sugar
5 parts Champagne (or Cava, or Prosecco)

Shake all but the Champagne with ice and pour into a flute glass, ensuring that the sugar dissolves. Fill the glass with Champagne and drink.

The drink tastes best when served very cold, so it is recommended to ensure the glass and ingredients are well chilled.

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