French 75 Recipe

This French 75 is a real show stopper, perfect for New Year’s Eve or a sophisticated brunch. It isn’t usually made with Cognac—gin is the standard spirit—but we’ve used Cognac here to give the cocktail a warmer, deeper flavor profile. Use gin if you prefer a sharper botanical taste. To make it extra special, ensure your Champagne is ice cold before pouring to keep the drink crisp. Not traditional, maybe, but very delicious.

Jump to Recipe

French 75 Recipe Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (4 ounces) VS or VSOP Cognac
• 1/2 cup (4 ounces) simple syrup
• 1/3 cup (3 ounces) freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 2 cups ice cubes
• 1 (750 ml) bottle good Champagne, chilled
• 4 long strips of lemon zest

How To Make French 75 Recipe

1. Combine the base: Pour the Cognac, simple syrup, and freshly squeezed lemon juice into a cocktail shaker.
2. Shake to chill: Add the 2 cups of ice cubes to the shaker. Place the cap on tightly and shake vigorously for at least 30 seconds. This is longer than you think, but necessary to dilute the alcohol slightly and get the mixture freezing cold.
3. Pour the base: Strain the mixture evenly into 4 Champagne flutes. The glasses should be filled about two-thirds full with the Cognac base.
4. Top and finish: Top off each glass with the chilled Champagne. Garnish each flute with a long strip of lemon zest and serve immediately while ice cold.

Recipe Tips

• The 30-Second Rule: You must shake the cocktail for the full 30 seconds. This isn’t just about mixing; the agitation melts the ice slightly (“dilution”), which smooths out the harsh burn of the alcohol and balances the tart lemon.
• The Spirit Swap: While the classic French 75 uses gin, this version uses Cognac (brandy). If you want the traditional herbaceous flavor, swap the 4 ounces of Cognac for 4 ounces of a London Dry Gin.
• Ice Cold Bubbles: Do not rely on the shaker ice alone to chill the drink. The Champagne itself must be thoroughly chilled before pouring, or the cocktail will be lukewarm and flat within minutes.
• Zest Technique: When peeling the lemon zest, try to avoid the white pith underneath. Twist the zest over the glass to release the essential oils onto the surface of the drink before dropping it in.

What To Serve With French 75 Recipe

This French 75 Recipe is a sophisticated, effervescent cocktail that cuts through rich and salty foods beautifully. It is the perfect companion for a raw bar, pairing effortlessly with Oysters on the half shell or a classic Shrimp Cocktail. For a party spread, serve it alongside a creamy Brie or Camembert on a Cheese Board, as the bubbles cleanse the palate between bites. If you are serving hot appetizers, something fried and salty like Truffle Fries or Gougères (cheese puffs) provides a delightful crunch that contrasts with the smooth cocktail.

How To Store French 75 Recipe

• Refrigerate: You can mix the “base” (Cognac, lemon juice, and simple syrup) ahead of time. Store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Shake with ice and top with Champagne just before serving.
• Freeze: Do not freeze the finished cocktail as the Champagne will lose its carbonation. However, you can freeze fresh lemon juice in ice cube trays for future use.

French 75 Recipe Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 0g

Nutrition information is estimated per serving.

FAQs