5. Even More From Paris: The French 75.
WHAT IT IS: When it comes to great historical stories, the French 75 beats the rest. Invented in Paris during WW1 by the U.S. Ambulance Corps out of scavenged liquor and champagne, and named in honor of the French M1897 75-mm Artillery field gun, after the hangover it produces when consumed in quantity. Except, of course, like most romantic war stories, it’s most likely a web of lies. That said, the French 75 is a scion of the family that includes the Collins, the Fizz, and others. The French 75 is also the tastiest of the bunch.
HOW TO MAKE IT: Like most of these drinks, there is controversy here. Those who adhere to the wartime origin argue that the drink should be made with cognac, while all extant recipes seem to point to gin, with the French 75 being essentially a tarted-up Tom Collins. Personally, I prefer gin, but your mileage may vary.
In a shaker, combine 1 1/2oz of your chosen booze, Gin or Cognac. Pick a side, and defend it fervently; it will make the drink taste better. Add ½ oz of fresh lemon juice, and ½ oz of simple syrup. Shake with ice and strain into a cocktail glass. Top with whatever champagne or sparkling wine you have.
There are those who insist on using only real champagne in a French 75. They strike me as the kind of people who pay too much for gold speaker cables so they can brag about it. Gas station sparkling wine is fine, really. Focus on using good gin or cognac.
Garnish with an orange or lemon twist.
WHY YOU SHOULD CARE: If you make this with gin, and soda instead of champagne, and serve in a highball glass over ice, you have a Tom Collins. If you substitute other alcohols, you will have the rest of Tom’s extensive family. If you make this well, with a well-delivered story, true or not, you may be on your way to a family of your own. In my home bar, we serve this one with an apricot and thyme-infused gin.
