There’s something undeniably magical about the French 75 cocktail—a drink that blends the crisp sophistication of champagne with the bold charm of gin (or cognac, if you prefer). Named after the powerful French 75mm field gun, this cocktail hits with the same exhilarating force—elegant, sparkling, and utterly celebratory.
Whether you’re toasting to a special occasion or simply elevating your happy hour, these five French 75 cocktail recipe variations will make every sip feel like a champagne-popping moment. Let’s dive in!
1. The Classic French 75 Cocktail
The original, the legend—a sparkling masterpiece.
Ingredients:
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1 oz gin (London Dry works best)
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½ oz fresh lemon juice (bright and tangy)
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½ oz simple syrup (for a touch of sweetness)
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2-3 oz chilled champagne or prosecco (the star of the show)
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Lemon twist or cherry (for garnish)
How to Make It:
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Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
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Add the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
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Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds until well-chilled.
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Strain into a chilled champagne flute.
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Top with champagne and gently stir.
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Garnish with a lemon twist or cherry.
How It Looks & Tastes:
Picture this: a tall, slender champagne flute filled with golden bubbles dancing over a crystal-clear elixir. The first sip? A perfect harmony—citrusy sharpness from the lemon, a whisper of sweetness, followed by the gin’s herbal bite, all lifted by the effervescence of champagne. It’s crisp, refreshing, and dangerously smooth.
2. The Cognac French 75
A richer, bolder twist for whiskey lovers.
Ingredients:
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1 oz cognac (smooth and velvety)
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½ oz lemon juice
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½ oz simple syrup
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2-3 oz champagne
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Orange twist (for a warm, aromatic finish)
How to Make It:
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In a shaker with ice, combine cognac, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
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Shake well until the mixture is frosty cold.
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Strain into a flute and top with champagne.
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Express an orange twist over the drink and drop it in as garnish.
How It Looks & Tastes:
Swap gin for cognac, and suddenly, your French 75 cocktail recipe transforms into something deeper—more luxurious. The champagne’s bubbles soften the cognac’s warmth, while the lemon keeps it lively. The orange twist adds a hint of spice, making this version feel like a toasted celebration in a glass.
3. The Floral Lavender French 75
A fragrant, garden-fresh delight.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz gin (or vodka for a cleaner taste)
- ½ oz lemon juice
- ½ oz lavender-infused simple syrup (steep dried lavender in hot syrup, then strain)
- 2-3 oz champagne
- Edible lavender buds or a sprig of rosemary (for garnish)
How to Make It:
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Shake gin, lemon juice, and lavender syrup with ice until well-chilled.
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Strain into a flute and top with champagne.
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Garnish with a sprinkle of lavender buds or a rosemary sprig.
How It Looks & Tastes:
This version is like sipping on a spring afternoon. The lavender syrup adds a soft, perfumed sweetness, while the champagne keeps it light and airy. The floral aroma makes it instantly Instagram-worthy—delicate, dreamy, and utterly enchanting.
4. The Berry-Infused French 75
A fruity, vibrant crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
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1 oz gin
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½ oz lemon juice
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½ oz raspberry or strawberry syrup (muddle fresh berries with sugar)
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2-3 oz champagne
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Fresh berries or a mint leaf (for garnish)
How to Make It:
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Muddle fresh raspberries or strawberries with sugar to make a quick syrup (or use store-bought berry syrup).
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Shake gin, lemon juice, and berry syrup with ice.
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Strain into a flute, top with champagne, and garnish with berries or mint.
How It Looks & Tastes:
Imagine a blush-pink cocktail, glistening with bubbles, with tiny berry flecks swirling inside. The berry syrup adds a jammy sweetness that balances the tart lemon, while the gin keeps it sophisticated. It’s playful yet refined—perfect for brunch or a summer soirée.
5. The Spiced Sage French 75
An herby, autumnal twist.
Ingredients:
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1 oz gin
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½ oz lemon juice
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½ oz sage-infused simple syrup (simmer fresh sage leaves in syrup)
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2-3 oz champagne
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A sage leaf or a dash of black pepper (for garnish)
How to Make It:
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Simmer fresh sage leaves in equal parts water and sugar to make the infused syrup. Let cool and strain.
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Shake gin, lemon juice, and sage syrup with ice.
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Strain into a flute, top with champagne, and garnish with a sage leaf or black pepper.
How It Looks & Tastes:
This one’s for those who love a savory edge. The sage syrup brings an earthy, almost peppery depth, while the lemon and champagne keep it bright. It’s unexpected, complex, and utterly addictive—like a gourmet cocktail crafted by a Michelin-starred mixologist.
Conclusion
No matter which French 75 cocktail recipe you choose, each version promises a sparkling, celebratory experience. Whether you stick to the classic or experiment with lavender, berries, or sage, one thing’s certain—this cocktail is champagne’s most glamorous companion.
