French 75

FRENCH 75

Are you ready for a special drink? Because this classic one sure is one! Introducing the French 75. I've longed for this cocktail for such a long time now and finally...finally I had the opportunity to create this truly fantastic cocktail!

• 2 cl fresh lemon juice
• 2 cl simple syrup
• 4.5 cl gin
• champagne (or sparkling wine)
• lemon twist for garnish

Before we start, some recipes substitute the gin for cognac (being the "French" 75, not the British 75), but either way it is fine. Just note that using quality cognac will of course alter the taste of this cocktail. I used gin, though.

Shake the first three ingredients in a cocktail shaker with plenty of ice and (double)strain into a champagne flute (a tall tom collins glass will do just fine, if you don't have a flute). Top the drink with the sparkling wine and decorate with a lemon twist. Remember that the sparkling wine will react with the sugar causing heavy foaming so pour it gently and carefully. Also, I used a rather large slice of lemon peel and given, it does look more beautiful in the drink than just a small twist.

Taste-wise. Phoooie! Just amazing. A perfect harmony I must say! This is definitely a drink for brunch or a good social event. You can't go wrong with the French 75.