Inside: Learn how to make a classic French 75 cocktail with gin, lemon, sugar, and champagne. Simple steps, pro tips, and everything you need to sip in style!
L et’s talk about the French 75—because, friends, this cocktail is a vibe.
It’s like the Audrey Hepburn of drinks: elegant, timeless, and somehow makes you feel a tiny bit cooler just by holding it. Whether you’re channeling a chic Parisian soirée or just want to sip something that screams, “I am fancy, and I deserve this,” the French 75 has you covered.
And the best part? You don’t need a tuxedo or a ball gown to make it. This cocktail is super simple and delivers maximum glam for minimal effort.

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Table of Contents
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What is a French 75?
Before we get to shaking things up, let’s break it down:
A French 75 is a classic cocktail that combines gin (or sometimes cognac), lemon juice, sugar, and champagne. It’s bubbly, citrusy, and packs just enough punch to make you forget the three dozen emails waiting for you. The drink got its name because it was said to have the same kick as a French 75mm field gun during World War I. That’s right—this drink is as historical as it is delicious.

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What You’ll Need
Here’s the beauty of a French 75: you probably already have most of this stuff in your kitchen.
- Gin (or cognac if you’re feeling extra cozy)
- Fresh lemon juice (please, for the love of all things holy, use fresh lemons—not the stuff in the plastic lemon bottle)
- Simple syrup (easy to make at home: just dissolve equal parts sugar and water over low heat)
- Champagne (or any sparkling wine that makes your wallet happy)
- Lemon twist for garnish (because aesthetics matter)

French 75
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz gin
- 3/4 oz lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- champagne
Instructions
- Add gin, lemon juice and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker with ice
- Shake for 30 seconds then strain into a champagne flute
- Top with champagne
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Pro Tips for the Perfect French 75
Gin or Cognac?
Traditionalists go with gin, but if you’re in a fall or winter mood, swap it for cognac—it adds a warm, rich depth.
Don’t skimp on the bubbles.
Champagne is ideal, but a good sparkling wine (like Cava or Prosecco) works just as well.
Keep it cold.
Chill your glass ahead of time for that crisp, refreshing first sip.
A Festive Variation
For a more festive spin on your sparkling cocktails, the pomegranate champagne cocktail makes a stunning choice, just like the classic French 75 we covered.
How to Set Up a French 75 Cocktail Station for Parties
If you’re hosting a party and want to impress your guests without spending the entire night playing bartender, a French 75 cocktail station is the move. It’s chic, interactive, and way easier than you’d think. Here’s how to pull it off like a pro.

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Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ingredients: Gin, fresh lemon juice (pre-squeezed), simple syrup, chilled champagne, lemon twists.
- Tools: Cocktail shaker, jigger, strainer, and plenty of champagne flutes.
- Instructions: Provide a printed recipe card.
Add a cute sign, keep champagne on ice, and let guests mix their own bubbly perfection!
Why You’ll Love This Drink
A French 75 is more than just a cocktail—it’s an experience. It’s the kind of drink that makes you feel like you should be wearing red lipstick and reciting poetry in a smoky jazz club. It’s light enough for brunch, fancy enough for date night, and strong enough to get you through Aunt Karen’s unsolicited life advice at Thanksgiving.
So, grab your shaker and give it a try. And don’t forget to raise your glass to yourself—because you’re fancy, and you deserve it. 🥂
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