The Secret to the Most Elegant French 75 Cocktail You’ll Ever Taste

The first time we sipped a French 75, it felt like stepping into a black-and-white film—elegant, sparkling, and bold. There’s something magical about the way this cocktail wraps citrusy brightness around a crisp effervescence, then finishes with a warming kiss of gin. It’s timeless, classic, and shockingly simple to make, yet it delivers a sophisticated punch that always impresses. Whether we’re toasting at a celebration or simply elevating an average evening, the French 75 brings a touch of glamour every single time.

This cocktail is where zest meets bubbles, and strength meets style. The lemony bite dances with the dry botanical notes of gin, while the champagne glides over your palate like silk. It’s sharp, refreshing, and dangerously drinkable.

Perfect for brunches, romantic dinners, or the start of a sparkling soirée—once you’ve had a French 75 made just right, you’ll never want to be without it again.

Preparation Time:

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Total time: 5 minutes

• Serves: 2 people

• Difficulty: Easy

Let’s dive into the essentials you’ll need to make this iconic drink at home.

The necessary ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations)

• 60 ml (2 oz) dry gin (we love a floral-forward gin like Hendrick’s or a crisp London Dry)

• 30 ml (1 oz) fresh lemon juice (never bottled—it changes everything)

• 15 ml (0.5 oz) simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water, or adjust to taste)

• 120 ml (4 oz) chilled Champagne or dry sparkling wine (like Cava or Prosecco)

• Ice cubes

• Lemon twist or peel, for garnish

Optional Variations and Substitutes:

• Vegan version: All ingredients are vegan as is—just make sure your sparkling wine is certified vegan.

• Low-sugar version: Use monk fruit syrup or erythritol-based simple syrup instead of traditional sugar.

• Alcohol-free: Substitute gin with a botanical non-alcoholic spirit (like Seedlip Grove) and use alcohol-free sparkling wine.

Now that we’ve gathered the golden ingredients, it’s time to shake, pour, and toast.

The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations)

From my many cocktail nights at home, I’ve learned that the method truly makes the magic. Here’s how to do it right every single time:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.

2. Pour in the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.

3. Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds, until well-chilled.

4. Strain into a chilled champagne flute or coupe glass.

5. Top slowly with chilled Champagne or sparkling wine.

6. Stir gently to combine—just once or twice with a spoon.

7. Garnish with a long twist of lemon peel, letting the oils fall onto the drink.

8. Serve immediately while bubbling, and toast to the good life.

Nutritional Benefits

Even a cocktail can have its perks! Here are a few reasons we don’t feel guilty enjoying a French 75:

• Rich in antioxidants from lemon juice, which helps support immune function and reduce inflammation.

• Botanicals from gin like juniper have natural antibacterial properties and are thought to aid digestion.

• Champagne in moderation can support heart health due to its polyphenol content.

• Lemon peel oils offer anti-inflammatory compounds and a refreshing aroma that lifts mood.

• Lower in sugar than many creamy or fruity cocktails, especially when adjusted with lighter syrup.

Possible Additions or Upgrades

We’ve experimented a lot at home and found these tweaks take the French 75 to new heights:

• Add a splash of elderflower liqueur for floral sweetness.

• Swap lemon for grapefruit or blood orange juice for a twist.

• Infuse your simple syrup with lavender or rosemary for a fragrant touch.

• Use a rosé sparkling wine for a blushing beauty version.

• Garnish with a candied citrus wheel or edible flowers for extra elegance.

• Serve it over crushed ice in a large wine glass for a summery feel.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Can I make this cocktail in advance?
No, it’s best made fresh. The bubbles flatten and the citrus dulls if it sits too long.

Can I use vodka instead of gin?
You can, but it loses the herbal complexity. It becomes a completely different drink—still tasty, though!

What kind of glass should I use?
A Champagne flute is classic, but a coupe adds a vintage flair. You can even serve it in a wine glass over ice for casual vibes.

Is it really strong?
Yes and no—it’s smooth, but packs a punch thanks to both gin and Champagne. Always sip responsibly.

Can I make a pitcher for a party?
Pre-mix the gin, lemon, and syrup, then top with bubbly per glass to keep it fresh and fizzy.

Is Prosecco okay instead of Champagne?
Absolutely! Choose a dry (brut) style to keep the drink balanced and not too sweet.

What’s the best gin to use?
We love a clean London Dry gin for its crisp profile, but a floral or citrus-forward gin makes it sing too.

Why is it called a French 75?
It’s named after the French 75mm field gun used in WWI—because the drink hits just as powerfully!

Can I use bottled lemon juice?
We really don’t recommend it. Fresh lemon juice makes a world of difference in brightness and flavor.

Can I make a mocktail version?
Yes! Use a botanical alcohol-free spirit and alcohol-free sparkling wine. Keep the lemon and syrup for the same vibe.

I hope this French 75 becomes as much of a go-to for you as it is in my home. It’s the cocktail we pull out when we want something special, without much fuss. If you enjoyed it, please share the recipe with friends or on social media—help spread the sparkle! 🥂