There’s no denying the French 75’s place on the podium of classic cocktails, with its timeless recipe of gin, champagne and lemon juice. Just in time for the kick-off of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the French 75 emerges as the perfect cocktail to raise a glass to excellence, tradition and the unforgettable memories of this global event.
The origin of the cocktail feels almost as international as the Games themselves. Sure, the cocktail may share its birthplace with the host city of the 2024 Olympic Games, but the French 75 is believed to have been created in 1915 at the New York Bar in Paris, which would later become known as Harry’s New York Bar. The cocktail was created by Scottish bartender Harry MacElhone – who is also credited with creating other classics such as the Bloody Mary, Sidecar and Monkey Gland – to keep the bar’s clientele of mostly American soldiers stationed in Paris happy and hydrated.
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Despite first impressions, its name is not a nod to its Francophile origins. Rather, the French 75 is named after the French 75mm field gun, a powerful and effective piece of artillery used during World War I – the cocktail’s potency led to comparisons with the weapon’s formidable kick. The drink soared in popularity throughout the 1920s and 30s, where its refreshing and celebratory nature made it a favorite during the Roaring Twenties. A century later, the French 75 remains the perfect tipple to toast to Olympic glory.
Over the years, variations of the drink have included cognac as its spirit of choice, with this version often being nicknamed the French 125 instead. In line with the original cocktail recipe, our pick for the French 75 is made with English gin from none other than premier distiller Bombay Sapphire. A generous top-up of champagne to finish, however, ensures this classic cocktail oozes with Parisian charm.
Ingredients:
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– 2 oz Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru
– 0.75oz lemon juice
– 0.75oz simple syrup
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– 2 oz Champagne
– Garnish with a lemon twist
Method:
Add the Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker. Shake, strain, and top with champagne and garnish with a lemon twist.
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