French 75 Cocktail
The French 75 is an elegant, effervescent cocktail, a perfect blend of gin (or cognac), fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and Champagne. It's a sophisticated drink known for its refreshing citrus notes and celebratory bubbles, ideal for any special occasion or a light, crisp aperitif.
Equipment
- 1 Cocktail Shaker Essential for chilling and mixing ingredients thoroughly.
- 1 Jigger or Measuring Spoons For accurate measurement of spirits and mixers.
- 1 Fine-Mesh Strainer To remove ice and any fruit pulp from the shaken mixture.
- 1 Champagne Flute The traditional serving glass to showcase the bubbles.
- 1 Citrus Juicer For extracting fresh lemon juice, crucial for flavor.
Ingredients
Main
- 1 to 2 ounces gin or cognac
- 1 teaspoon simple syrup
- 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
- 4 ounces Champagne
- Garnish: lemon twist
Instructions
- Chill your champagne flute thoroughly, ideally by placing it in the freezer for a few minutes or filling it with ice water while you prepare the ingredients.
- Combine 1 to 2 ounces of gin (or cognac), 1 teaspoon of simple syrup, and 1/2 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice into a cocktail shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
- Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
- Discard the ice water from your chilled flute, if used.
- Strain the chilled mixture from the shaker into the prepared champagne flute, ensuring no ice shards fall into the glass.
- Gently top the cocktail with 4 ounces of cold Champagne, pouring slowly to maintain the effervescence.
- Prepare a lemon twist for garnish by peeling a strip of lemon zest, avoiding the white pith, and twisting it over the drink to release its aromatic oils.
- Place the lemon twist into the drink or on the rim as a final flourish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the sparkling, refreshing cocktail.
Notes
For an authentic French 75, ensure all ingredients are well-chilled, especially the Champagne, which should be added last to preserve its effervescence. While gin is standard, a historically accurate rendition can use cognac for a richer, more complex profile; consider the guest's preference. Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice – pre-bottled alternatives significantly compromise flavor. When making a lemon twist, ensure to express the oils over the drink before dropping it in for an aromatic finish. Adjust simple syrup to taste, as sweetness preference varies, and remember the Champagne will also contribute some residual sugar.