French 75

This crisp, citrusy French 75 cocktail combines gin, fresh lemon juice, and Champagne for a bubbly, festive drink that’s remarkably easy to make. It’s equally at home at a New Year’s Eve party, holiday brunch, or summer gathering.Shaking the gin and lemon juice with simple syrup and ice properly dilutes the cocktail and adds a delicate sweetness. Be sure to pop your Champagne into the fridge for at least 4 hours before assembling to keep everything cold. And don’t skip the lemon twist: It perfumes this elegant cocktail as you sip.French 75 FAQIsn’t a French 75 made with cognac?It can be. Gin is common in modern versions, including this recipe, but cognac does have historical precedent.Making the drink with gin gives the French 75 a crisper, more botanical flavor; using cognac makes one that tastes richer and more warming. Feel free to substitute cognac here for the gin in equal measure.Can I use prosecco instead of Champagne?Yes. Cava, prosecco, or another dry sparkling wine can stand in for Champagne. Look for a bottle labeled “brut” to keep the finished French 75 from becoming overly sweet. Read more about buying Champagne:What if my French 75 is too sweet?If you prefer a drier cocktail, reduce the simple syrup to ½ or ¼ oz. You can always add more to taste.Why is it called a French 75?The cocktail takes its name from the French 75-millimeter field gun used during World War I—a reference to the drink’s considerable kick.Its precise origins are debated, but, according to Chris Hannah, head bartender at Arnaud’s French 75 Bar in New Orleans, allied French and American military celebrated with cognac and Champagne, toasting the French 75 cannon for keeping them safe. Today, you’ll more often see the drink made with dry gin.Can I make French 75s ahead?Not entirely. It’s best to keep the Champagne chilled and sealed until you’re ready to serve, but you can mix the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup up to 6 hours ahead.For 8 servings:Stir 1½ cups gin, ¾ cups fresh lemon juice, ¾ cups simple syrup, and ½ cup water (the water replaces the dilution caused by shaking) in a pitcher to combine. Chill until ready to use. To serve, pour 3½ oz. of your chilled gin mixture into a flute glass and top with 2 oz. Champagne as directed.