The French 75 is a classic cocktail that has been a staple in bars and restaurants for nearly a century. Made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne, this refreshing drink is a favorite among many cocktail enthusiasts. However, have you ever wondered why it’s called the French 75? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the French 75 and explore the various theories behind its name.
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. MacElhone is said to have created the drink in 1915, and it quickly became popular among the American expatriate community in Paris.
The original recipe for the French 75, as published in MacElhone’s 1922 book “Harry’s ABC of Mixing Cocktails,” called for gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne. The drink was served in a champagne flute and garnished with a lemon twist.
Theories Behind the Name
So, why is the French 75 called the French 75? There are several theories, each with its own merits.
The World War I Connection
One theory is that the drink was named after the French 75mm field gun, which was used by the French military during World War I. The gun was known for its accuracy and reliability, and it’s possible that the drink was named after it as a tribute to the French military.
Another theory is that the drink was named after the year 1915, when it was allegedly created. However, this theory is less plausible, as the drink was likely named after the gun rather than the year.
The Cocktail’s Potency
Another theory is that the drink was named after its potency. The French 75 is a strong drink, with a combination of gin and champagne that can pack a punch. It’s possible that the drink was named after the French 75mm field gun because of its “kick,” which was similar to the gun’s powerful recoil.
The American Connection
Some cocktail historians believe that the French 75 was named after an American, not a French, connection. One theory is that the drink was named after a 75mm field gun used by the American military during World War I. However, this theory is less plausible, as the drink is more closely associated with the French military.
The Evolution of the French 75
Over the years, the French 75 has undergone several changes and variations. Some bartenders have experimented with different types of gin, while others have added their own twist to the recipe.
One popular variation of the French 75 is the “French 95,” which substitutes cognac for the gin. This variation is said to have been created by Harry MacElhone himself, who wanted to create a more luxurious version of the drink.
Another variation is the “French 75 Royale,” which adds a splash of Grand Marnier to the drink. This variation is said to have been created by a bartender in the 1980s, who wanted to add a more citrusy flavor to the drink.
Modern Twists on the French 75
In recent years, bartenders have experimented with new and innovative twists on the French 75. Some have added unique ingredients, such as lavender or honey, while others have used different types of champagne.
One popular modern twist on the French 75 is the “Sakura 75,” which substitutes Japanese gin for the traditional gin. This variation is said to have been created by a bartender in Tokyo, who wanted to create a more delicate and floral version of the drink.
French 75 Variations Around the World
The French 75 has become a popular drink around the world, with variations and twists popping up in bars and restaurants from Paris to Tokyo.
In the United States, the French 75 is often served with a twist of citrus, such as a lemon or orange twist. In the UK, the drink is often served with a splash of soda water, which adds a bit of fizz to the drink.
In Australia, the French 75 is often served with a splash of citrus-flavored soda water, which adds a bit of sweetness to the drink. In Japan, the drink is often served with a splash of yuzu juice, which adds a bit of citrus flavor to the drink.
Conclusion
The French 75 is a classic cocktail with a rich history and a mysterious name. While we may never know for certain why the drink is called the French 75, it’s clear that the name is closely tied to the drink’s origins in World War I-era Paris.
Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or just looking for a refreshing drink, the French 75 is a must-try. With its combination of gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne, this drink is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
So the next time you order a French 75, remember the rich history and mystery behind the name. And who knows? You may just discover a new favorite drink.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gin | 1 1/2 oz |
| Lemon juice | 1/2 oz |
| Sugar | 1/2 oz |
| Champagne | 4 oz |
Recipe: Combine gin, lemon juice, and sugar in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake until chilled and strain into a champagne flute. Top with champagne and garnish with a lemon twist.
Note: You can adjust the quantity of the ingredients to your taste. Some people prefer a stronger gin flavor, while others prefer a sweeter drink. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect French 75.
What is the French 75 cocktail?
The French 75 is a classic cocktail made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne. It is a refreshing and elegant drink that has been enjoyed by many for nearly a century. The combination of the crisp, dry gin, the tartness of the lemon, and the sweetness of the sugar, all topped with the effervescence of champagne, makes for a truly unique and delicious cocktail.
The origins of the French 75 are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have been created in the early 20th century. Some attribute its creation to Harry MacElhone, an American bartender who worked at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, while others claim it was created by a British army officer during World War I. Regardless of its true origins, the French 75 has become a beloved cocktail around the world.
What are the ingredients of a classic French 75 cocktail?
The classic French 75 cocktail is made with just a few simple ingredients: gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne. The traditional recipe calls for 1 1/2 ounces of gin, 1/2 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved). The drink is then topped with 2-3 ounces of champagne.
It’s worth noting that some variations of the French 75 may include additional ingredients, such as a dash of bitters or a splash of liqueur. However, the classic recipe is simplicity itself, and the beauty of the drink lies in the balance and harmony of its few ingredients.
Who is credited with inventing the French 75 cocktail?
As mentioned earlier, the origins of the French 75 are shrouded in mystery, and there are several different claims about who invented the drink. One story credits Harry MacElhone, an American bartender who worked at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, with creating the French 75 in the 1920s. According to this story, MacElhone created the drink as a variation on the classic Gin Fizz, and it quickly became popular with the bar’s clientele.
Another story claims that the French 75 was created by a British army officer during World War I. According to this story, the officer created the drink as a way to make the harsh, rough gin of the time more palatable, and it quickly became popular among his fellow soldiers. Regardless of who actually invented the French 75, it is clear that the drink has a rich and fascinating history.
What is the significance of the name “French 75”?
The name “French 75” is believed to refer to a type of artillery piece used by the French military during World War I. The “French 75” was a 75mm field gun that was known for its speed and accuracy, and it played a significant role in the war. It’s possible that the drink was named after this gun as a way of paying tribute to the French military, or perhaps as a way of evoking the sense of excitement and danger associated with war.
It’s also worth noting that the name “French 75” may have been chosen simply because it sounded elegant and sophisticated. The drink was popularized in the 1920s and 1930s, a time when all things French were considered chic and fashionable. Regardless of its true origins, the name “French 75” has become synonymous with a classic, elegant cocktail.
How do you make a French 75 cocktail?
To make a French 75 cocktail, start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice. Add 1 1/2 ounces of gin, 1/2 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup to the shaker. Shake the mixture vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
Strain the mixture into a champagne flute or a tall, slender glass. Top the drink with 2-3 ounces of champagne, and garnish with a lemon twist or wheel. The drink should be served immediately, while the champagne is still bubbly and the flavors are still bright and fresh.
What are some variations of the French 75 cocktail?
While the classic French 75 recipe is simple and elegant, there are many variations of the drink that can be made by substituting different ingredients or adding new flavors. One popular variation is the “French 95,” which substitutes cognac for the gin. Another variation is the “French 125,” which adds a splash of Grand Marnier to the drink.
Other variations of the French 75 might include adding a dash of bitters or a splash of liqueur, such as Cointreau or Triple Sec. Some bartenders also like to experiment with different types of citrus, such as lime or grapefruit, to create a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Why is the French 75 cocktail still popular today?
The French 75 cocktail remains popular today for many of the same reasons that it was popular when it was first created. The drink is elegant and sophisticated, making it a popular choice for special occasions and formal events. It is also refreshing and easy to drink, making it a great choice for warm weather or outdoor gatherings.
In addition, the French 75 has a rich and fascinating history that continues to captivate cocktail enthusiasts and historians. The drink has been enjoyed by many famous and influential people over the years, including writers, artists, and politicians. Whether you’re a history buff or simply a lover of great cocktails, the French 75 is a drink that is sure to delight and inspire.