History of the French 75 Cocktail- and Oiler Studio’s Twist On It!

The French 75 cocktail is a classic drink with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Named after the French 75mm field gun, a powerful artillery piece used during World War I, the cocktail is known for its strong kick, reminiscent of the cannon's firepower.

The drink's origins are somewhat contested, but it is widely believed to have been created around 1915 at the New York Bar in Paris, which later became Harry's New York Bar. The drink was likely invented by Harry MacElhone, a notable bartender of the era. The French 75 quickly gained popularity, especially among American expatriates in Paris, and was later immortalized in literature by writers like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway.

The French 75 combines gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and Champagne, resulting in a refreshing and potent cocktail. Its balance of sweetness, tartness, and effervescence has made it a timeless favorite.

Classic French 75 Recipe

• 2 oz gin

• 1 oz lemon juice

• 0.5 oz simple syrup

• Champagne

1. Combine gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.

2. Shake well and strain into a Champagne flute.

3. Top with Champagne and garnish with a lemon twist.

French 75 with Cognac

• 1 oz Cognac

• 0.5 oz lemon juice

• 0.5 oz simple syrup

• Champagne

1. Combine Cognac, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.

2. Shake well and strain into a Champagne flute.

3. Top with Champagne and garnish with a lemon twist.

Modern French 75

• 1.5 oz gin

• 0.75 oz lemon juice

• 0.75 oz simple syrup

• Sparkling wine (Prosecco or Cava as alternatives)

1. Combine gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.

2. Shake well and strain into a Champagne flute.

3. Top with sparkling wine and garnish with a lemon twist.

These variations showcase the flexibility of the French 75, allowing it to be tailored to different tastes and preferences. Whether enjoyed as an aperitif or a celebratory drink, the French 75 remains a symbol of elegance and sophistication in the world of cocktails.

At Oiler Studio, we’ve created a French 75 flight with our own spin on the classic, well-varied cocktail!

Come by to learn more.

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