With its beautiful, refreshing lemon and juniper notes, and lots of fabulous fizz, it’s easy to see why the classic French 75 cocktail recipe has remained a favourite mainstay of cocktail menus across the globe for over a century.

Why is it called a “French 75”? Thought to have been first invented at the New York Bar in Paris in 1915, it is said that this classic cocktail is named after the 75mm Howitzer field guns used in World War One by both the Americans and the French - with its hit of gin and sparkling wine, someone thought it packed a punch like being hit by a weapon!

(Yes, it is a strong cocktail, but it’s also deliciously drinkable as the simple syrup and lemon juice balance out the alcohol!)

With a simple mix of fresh lemon juice, gin (London Dry is preferred), simple syrup and champagne, it couldn’t be easier to make a French 75 cocktail at home, especially with our recipe below.

It’s the perfect way to add a touch of elegance and luxury to nights in with your favourite gin pals and it’s so quick to make that it’s great for cocktail parties and celebrations too. Give it a go!

French 75 cocktail recipe:

30ml gin
15ml lemon juice
15ml simple syrup
Champagne, to top

Combine gin, lemon juice and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for about five seconds. Strain into a champagne flute and top with ice-cold Champagne or sparkling wine for one of the best ways to kick-off dinner.

If you like this cocktail recipe then you should also check out our Italian 75! This unique twist on the classic French 75 recipe swaps the champagne for prosecco and adds a sweet-tart dash of limoncello. It is utterly scrumptious but don’t just take our word for it, try it for yourself! You can find the recipe here or by clicking on the image below:

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