The French 75 is a classic cocktail that has been a staple in bars and restaurants around the world for nearly a century. Made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne, this refreshing drink is perfect for special occasions or as a sophisticated pick-me-up. However, despite its name, the French 75 is not commonly known by this name in France. In this article, we will delve into the history of the French 75, explore its origins, and uncover the mystery behind its name in France.
A Brief History of the French 75
The French 75 is believed to have 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, MacElhone created the drink in 1915, and it quickly became popular among American expats and French locals alike.
The original recipe for the French 75 called for gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne, which were mixed together in a shaker filled with ice. The drink was then strained into a champagne flute and garnished with a lemon twist. The French 75 was an instant hit, and its popularity soon spread beyond the borders of France.
The Name “French 75”: A Reference to a World War I Artillery Piece
So, why is the drink called the French 75? The answer lies in the name of a World War I artillery piece, the French 75mm field gun. This gun was a staple of the French military during the war and was known for its accuracy and reliability.
The name “French 75” was likely chosen because of the drink’s association with France and the French military. The drink’s creator, Harry MacElhone, was an American who worked in Paris, and it’s possible that he chose the name as a nod to his adopted city and the French military.
The French 75 in France: A Different Name for a Beloved Drink
Despite its name, the French 75 is not commonly known by this name in France. In fact, the drink is more commonly known as the “Soixante-Quinze” or the “75.” This name is a direct reference to the French 75mm field gun, and it’s a name that is still used today in bars and restaurants throughout France.
So, why the different name? The answer lies in the cultural and historical context of the drink. While the French 75 was popularized by American expats and bartenders, the drink itself is deeply rooted in French culture and history. The name “Soixante-Quinze” is a nod to this heritage, and it’s a name that is more commonly used in France.
A Taste of History: The Soixante-Quinze in Modern France
Today, the Soixante-Quinze remains a popular drink in France, particularly in upscale bars and restaurants. The drink is often made with high-end gin and champagne, and it’s typically served in a champagne flute.
In addition to its popularity in bars and restaurants, the Soixante-Quinze is also a staple at French social gatherings and events. The drink is often served at weddings, parties, and other celebrations, and it’s a popular choice among the French aristocracy.
Conclusion
The French 75 is a classic cocktail that has been a staple in bars and restaurants around the world for nearly a century. Despite its name, the drink is not commonly known by this name in France, where it’s more commonly known as the “Soixante-Quinze” or the “75.” This name is a nod to the drink’s association with the French 75mm field gun, and the French military.
Whether you call it the French 75 or the Soixante-Quinze, this drink is a must-try for anyone who loves classic cocktails. With its refreshing blend of gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne, the French 75 is the perfect drink for special occasions or as a sophisticated pick-me-up.
How to Make a French 75 (or Soixante-Quinze)
Making a French 75 is relatively simple, and it requires just a few ingredients. Here’s a recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz gin
- 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 2 oz champagne
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake the mixture until it’s chilled and well-combined.
- Strain the mixture into a champagne flute.
- Top the mixture with champagne.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
Tips and Variations
- Use high-end gin and champagne for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of simple syrup to your taste.
- Try using different types of citrus, such as lime or orange, for a unique twist.
- Experiment with different types of champagne, such as vintage or rosé, for a unique flavor.
By following this recipe and experimenting with different ingredients and variations, you can create a French 75 that’s truly unique and delicious. Whether you call it the French 75 or the Soixante-Quinze, this drink is sure to be a hit at your next party or gathering.
What is the French 75 cocktail, and what are its ingredients?
The French 75 is a classic cocktail made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne. The traditional recipe consists of 1 1/2 ounces of gin, 1/2 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1/2 ounce of simple syrup, and 2 ounces of champagne. The ingredients are combined in a shaker filled with ice, shaken until chilled, and then strained into a champagne flute. The drink is garnished with a lemon twist or wheel, adding a touch of elegance to its presentation.
The combination of gin, lemon juice, and sugar provides a crisp and refreshing flavor profile, while the champagne adds a celebratory touch to the drink. The French 75 is often served as an apéritif or a refreshing pick-me-up, making it a popular choice for special occasions and social gatherings. Its unique blend of flavors and effervescent texture has made it a beloved classic among cocktail enthusiasts.
What is the origin of the French 75 cocktail, and how did it get its name?
The French 75 cocktail is believed to have 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, MacElhone created the drink in 1915, and it quickly became popular among American expatriates and French locals alike.
The name “French 75” is thought to refer to a type of artillery piece used by the French military during World War I. The 75mm field gun, also known as the “French 75,” was a highly effective and feared weapon on the battlefield. The cocktail’s name may have been inspired by the gun’s reputation for being powerful and efficient, much like the drink’s potent combination of gin and champagne.
What is the significance of the French 75 cocktail in French culture?
The French 75 cocktail holds a special place in French culture, particularly in the city of Paris. The drink is often associated with the city’s vibrant nightlife and rich history of cocktail culture. During the 1920s and 1930s, the French 75 was a staple of Parisian bars and cafes, where it was enjoyed by writers, artists, and intellectuals.
Today, the French 75 remains a popular choice in French bars and restaurants, particularly in Paris. The drink is often served as a way to celebrate special occasions or to add a touch of elegance to a night out. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the drink’s timeless appeal and its place in French cultural heritage.
How does the French 75 cocktail relate to the Lost Generation?
The French 75 cocktail has a strong connection to the Lost Generation, a group of American writers and artists who lived in Paris during the 1920s and 1930s. Writers like Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Gertrude Stein were known to frequent Parisian bars and cafes, where they would often order French 75s.
The French 75 became a sort of unofficial drink of the Lost Generation, symbolizing their love of luxury, excess, and creative expression. The drink’s potent combination of gin and champagne made it a favorite among the group, who would often drink it to excess and then write about their experiences in their works.
What is the best way to serve a French 75 cocktail?
The French 75 is typically served in a champagne flute, which showcases the drink’s elegant color and effervescent texture. The glass should be chilled before serving, either by placing it in the freezer or by filling it with ice and then discarding the ice.
When serving a French 75, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients, including fresh lemon juice and real champagne. The drink should be garnished with a lemon twist or wheel, which adds a touch of citrus flavor and visual appeal. The French 75 is best served as an apéritif or a refreshing pick-me-up, making it an excellent choice for special occasions or social gatherings.
Can I make variations of the French 75 cocktail?
While the traditional French 75 recipe is a classic, there are many variations of the drink that can be made by substituting different ingredients or adding new flavors. Some popular variations include using different types of gin, such as London Dry or Plymouth Gin, or adding a splash of liqueur like Cointreau or Grand Marnier.
Other variations of the French 75 might include using different types of citrus, such as lime or grapefruit, or adding a splash of sparkling water for a lighter flavor. Experimenting with different ingredients and flavor combinations can help you create a unique variation of the French 75 that suits your taste preferences.
What is the cultural significance of the French 75 cocktail today?
The French 75 cocktail remains a cultural icon today, symbolizing the luxury and sophistication of a bygone era. The drink’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its place in cocktail culture.
The French 75 has also become a popular choice in modern bars and restaurants, where it is often served as a way to add a touch of elegance to a night out. The drink’s cultural significance extends beyond its flavor and ingredients, representing a connection to history, culture, and tradition. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or simply looking to experience a piece of history, the French 75 is a drink that is sure to impress.