Stirred Up Stories: The French 75 - Champagne with a Punch

When you want something classy, sparkling, and with a serious punch, the French 75 has you covered. Named after the French 75mm field gun used during World War I, this cocktail delivers a fizzy, refreshing, and potent mix of gin, lemon, and bubbly — perfect for celebrations or anytime you want to feel a bit fancy.

The Origins: War, Champagne, and a Clever Mix

The French 75 was reportedly invented in 1915 at the New York Bar in Paris (later Harry’s New York Bar), a hotspot for American expatriates and soldiers during the war.

Legend has it the drink got its name because it hit you as hard as the French 75mm artillery gun — a clever nod to the cocktail’s strength, the cocktail was famed for delivering a punch as strong as the cannon it was named after.

This drink perfectly blends the French tradition of champagne with the British love of gin — combining the bubbly sparkle of sparkling wine, the botanical bite of gin, and the fresh zing of lemon. It quickly became popular with Allied soldiers looking for a taste of sophistication amid the chaos of war.

During the U.S. Prohibition era, Americans abroad embraced the French 75 as a classy, potent alternative. Early recipes varied widely — some used cognac instead of gin — but the balance of strength and elegance made it a timeless classic.

How to Make a Classic French 75

Ingredients:

• 30ml Gin

• 15ml Fresh Lemon Juice

• 15ml Simple Syrup

• 60ml Champagne or other dry sparkling wine

• Lemon twist, for garnish

• Ice

Method:

1. Fill a shaker with ice and add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.

2. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.

3. Strain into a chilled champagne flute.

4. Top with champagne.

5. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Variations & Tips

• Substitute gin with cognac for a richer flavour.

• Try adding a splash of elderflower liqueur for floral notes.

• Use a dry sparkling rosé for a pretty pink twist.

Why It Works

The French 75 balances the botanical punch of gin with the bright citrus and celebratory sparkle of champagne. It’s elegant yet lively — a cocktail that has stood the test of time because it suits so many moods.

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