The French 75 is a timeless cocktail that has been a staple in bars and restaurants for nearly a century. Its delicate balance of gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne has captivated the hearts of many, making it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. However, the type of gin used in a French 75 is often a topic of debate among mixologists and gin connoisseurs. In this article, we will delve into the world of gin and explore the different types of gin that can be used in a French 75, as well as the history and evolution of this iconic cocktail.
A Brief History of the French 75
The French 75 is a cocktail that originated in the early 20th century, during World War I. The drink is often attributed to Harry MacElhone, an American bartender who worked at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris. According to legend, the drink was created in 1915 by MacElhone, who named it after a World War I artillery piece, the French 75mm field gun. The drink quickly gained popularity among American expats and French locals, who appreciated its unique blend of flavors and refreshing qualities.
The Original Recipe
The original recipe for the French 75, as published in MacElhone’s 1922 book “Harry’s ABC of Mixing Cocktails,” called for the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz gin
- 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 2 oz champagne
The recipe was simple, yet elegant, and it quickly became a staple in bars and restaurants across the globe.
The Gin Debate
When it comes to making a French 75, the type of gin used is often a topic of debate among mixologists and gin connoisseurs. Some argue that a London Dry Gin is the only type of gin that should be used in a French 75, while others claim that a more modern, botanical-forward gin is the way to go.
London Dry Gin
London Dry Gin is a type of gin that is known for its bold, juniper-forward flavor profile. This type of gin is often associated with traditional gin cocktails, such as the Martini and the Negroni. When used in a French 75, London Dry Gin adds a crisp, dry flavor that complements the sweetness of the champagne and the tartness of the lemon juice.
Some popular London Dry Gins that can be used in a French 75 include:
- Beefeater
- Bombay Sapphire
- Tanqueray
Botanical-Forward Gins
In recent years, there has been a trend towards more modern, botanical-forward gins. These gins are often characterized by their unique flavor profiles, which can include a wide range of botanicals such as citrus, spices, and herbs. When used in a French 75, botanical-forward gins can add a new level of complexity and depth to the drink.
Some popular botanical-forward gins that can be used in a French 75 include:
- Hendrick’s
- The Botanist
- Death’s Door
Other Types of Gin
While London Dry Gin and botanical-forward gins are the most commonly used types of gin in a French 75, there are other types of gin that can also be used. These include:
- Plymouth Gin: A type of gin that is known for its slightly sweeter flavor profile than London Dry Gin.
- Old Tom Gin: A type of gin that is known for its sweet, malty flavor profile.
- Genever: A type of gin that is known for its malty, juniper-forward flavor profile.
Experimenting with Different Gins
One of the best ways to determine which type of gin is best for a French 75 is to experiment with different types of gin. Try making a French 75 with a London Dry Gin, and then try making one with a botanical-forward gin. See which one you prefer, and adjust the recipe accordingly.
Conclusion
The French 75 is a timeless cocktail that has been a staple in bars and restaurants for nearly a century. While the type of gin used in a French 75 is often a topic of debate, there are many different types of gin that can be used to make this iconic cocktail. Whether you prefer a traditional London Dry Gin or a more modern, botanical-forward gin, the key to making a great French 75 is to use high-quality ingredients and to experiment with different flavor profiles. So next time you’re at a bar or making cocktails at home, be sure to try a French 75 and see which type of gin you prefer.
| Gin Type | Flavor Profile | Recommended Brands |
|---|---|---|
| London Dry Gin | Bold, juniper-forward | Beefeater, Bombay Sapphire, Tanqueray |
| Botanical-Forward Gin | Unique, complex flavor profile | Hendrick’s, The Botanist, Death’s Door |
| Plymouth Gin | Slightly sweeter than London Dry Gin | Plymouth Gin |
| Old Tom Gin | Sweet, malty flavor profile | Hayman’s Old Tom Gin |
| Genever | Malty, juniper-forward flavor profile | Bols Genever |
By understanding the different types of gin that can be used in a French 75, you can experiment with different flavor profiles and find the perfect combination for your taste preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just starting to explore the world of cocktails, the French 75 is a drink that is sure to please.
What is the French 75 cocktail?
The French 75 is a classic cocktail made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne. It is a refreshing and elegant drink that has been popular for nearly a century. The cocktail is typically served in a champagne flute and garnished with a lemon twist or wheel.
The origins of the French 75 are somewhat disputed, but it is believed to have been created in the early 20th century by Harry MacElhone, an American bartender who worked at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris. The cocktail was originally called the “Soixante-Quinze” (French for “seventy-five”), which was a reference to a World War I artillery piece. Over time, the name was shortened to the French 75.
What type of gin is traditionally used in a French 75?
Traditionally, a London Dry Gin is used in a French 75. This type of gin is known for its bold, juniper-forward flavor profile, which complements the other ingredients in the cocktail. Some popular brands of London Dry Gin that are often used in French 75s include Beefeater, Bombay Sapphire, and Tanqueray.
When choosing a gin for a French 75, it’s best to select a high-quality, juniper-forward gin that will hold its own against the other ingredients. Avoid using a gin that is too floral or citrusy, as this can throw off the balance of the cocktail.
How do you make a French 75?
To make a French 75, you will need the following ingredients: 1 1/2 ounces gin, 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1/2 ounce simple syrup, and 2 ounces champagne. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Shake until chilled and strain into a champagne flute.
Top the cocktail off with champagne and garnish with a lemon twist or wheel. You can also add a sugar cube to the cocktail, if desired, to balance out the acidity of the lemon juice.
What is the best way to serve a French 75?
A French 75 is typically served in a champagne flute, which showcases the cocktail’s elegant, bubbly texture. To serve, fill the flute with ice and strain the cocktail mixture into the glass. Top with champagne and garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
When serving a French 75, it’s best to use a high-quality champagne that will complement the other ingredients in the cocktail. Avoid using a champagne that is too sweet or too dry, as this can throw off the balance of the cocktail.
Can you make variations of the French 75?
Yes, there are many variations of the French 75 that you can make by substituting different ingredients or adding new flavors to the cocktail. Some popular variations include the French 95, which is made with cognac instead of gin, and the French 75 Royale, which is made with champagne and a splash of Grand Marnier.
You can also experiment with different types of citrus juice, such as lime or grapefruit, to create a unique flavor profile. Additionally, you can add a splash of liqueur, such as Cointreau or Triple Sec, to give the cocktail a bit more complexity.
Is the French 75 a popular cocktail?
Yes, the French 75 is a very popular cocktail that has been enjoyed by people around the world for nearly a century. It is a classic cocktail that is often served at upscale bars and restaurants, and it is also a popular choice for special occasions, such as weddings and anniversaries.
The French 75 has also been featured in numerous films and literature, including the James Bond series and the works of Ernest Hemingway. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless elegance and sophistication.
Is the French 75 a difficult cocktail to make?
No, the French 75 is not a difficult cocktail to make. It requires only a few ingredients, including gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and champagne, and it can be prepared in just a few minutes. The most challenging part of making a French 75 is probably finding a good balance between the different ingredients, but this can be achieved with a bit of practice and experimentation.
To make a great French 75, it’s also important to use high-quality ingredients and to pay attention to the details, such as the type of gin and champagne you use, and the way you garnish the cocktail. With a bit of practice, you can create a French 75 that is truly exceptional.