French 75

The French 75 (or Soixante Quinze) is a lethal “Contemporary Classic” composed of Gin, Fresh Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, and Champagne. It is a sophisticated hybrid of a Tom Collins and a Champagne Cocktail, celebrated for its sparkling elegance and a deceptive potency that historically compared to being shelled by heavy artillery.

Key Takeaways

• Alcoholic Base: London Dry Gin.
• Sparkling Component: Champagne (Brut).
• Glassware: Champagne Flute (Modern) or Coupe (Traditional).
• Flavor Profile: Tart, effervescent, and botanical.

History: The World War I Artillery Piece

The drink was created during World War I, with its first mentions appearing around 1915.

The 75mm Field Gun

The cocktail is named after the Canon de 75 modèle 1897, the French 75mm field gun that was the mainstay of the French artillery. The gun was famous for its rapid fire and precision, and the cocktail was said to have a similar, immediate “kick.”

Harry’s New York Bar

The modern gin-based version was popularized and codified in Harry MacElhone’s ABC of Mixing Cocktails (1922) and later in the 1930 Savoy Cocktail Book.

Ingredient Analysis: Gin vs. Cognac

A major historical debate exists regarding the base spirit of the French 75:

• The Gin Version (IBA Standard): Popularized in London and New York. It is lighter, more floral, and citrus-focused.
• The Cognac Version: Often referred to as the “French” version or the Arnaud’s French 75 (New Orleans style). Using Cognac results in a richer, warmer, and more complex beverage that carries the weight of the Champagne better.

Choosing the Champagne

Use a Brut Champagne. The dryness of the wine is essential to balance the simple syrup. Using a sweeter sparkling wine (like Prosecco or Extra Dry) will result in a flabby, overly sugary cocktail.

Preparation Mechanics

1. The Sour Foundation: Shake the gin, lemon juice, and syrup with ice for 12 seconds. This must be done separately to chill the spirit base without diluting the Champagne’s carbonation.
2. The Pour: Strain the shaken mixture into a chilled flute.
3. The Top: Carefully top with 60ml of Champagne. Slowly pour at an angle to preserve as many bubbles as possible.
4. The Stir: Use a long barspoon to give a single, gentle “lift” from the bottom to integrate the syrup and wine.
5. Garnish: A thin lemon twist expressive over the glass provides the final citrus aromatic.

Tasting Profile

The French 75 is the ultimate “up” drink. It features a bright, acidic lemon entry followed by the botanical complexity of the gin. The finish is crystalline and dry, with the Champagne’s minerality providing a sophisticated, lingering effervescence. It is the definitive brunch or celebratory evening cocktail.