French "75"

Pro tips

• Chill your glass beforehand—a cold coupe or flute glass keeps the drink properly cold longer and preserves bubbles.
• Shake vigorously with ice for 10–15 seconds to properly dilute and chill the gin mixture before straining.
• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice, not bottled, for better balance and cleaner citrus flavor.
• Pour champagne slowly as the final pour to maintain carbonation and create a layered visual effect.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → Tanqueray or Beefeater (classic London Dry alternatives with similar botanicals)
• Powdered sugar → Simple syrup, 0.5 tsp (dissolves faster, easier to batch)
• Champagne → Dry prosecco or cava (more affordable alternative with similar carbonation)

Storage & make-ahead

Not applicable—French 75 cocktails are best served immediately after preparation.

Equipment

cocktail shaker · strainer · coupe or flute glass · bar spoon · jigger

What gin should I use for a French 75?

A dry London Dry style gin works best. Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin is traditional, but any quality dry gin will produce the classic balance of botanicals and citrus.

Can I make a French 75 ahead of time?

Prepare the lemon juice and powdered sugar mixture in advance, but add the gin, ice, and champagne just before serving to keep it properly chilled and carbonated.

What champagne is best for a French 75?

Any dry champagne or dry sparkling wine works. Brut champagne is the standard choice for its crisp acidity and minimal residual sugar.

Should I shake or stir a French 75?

Shake the gin, lemon juice, powdered sugar, and ice together, then strain into a glass and top with champagne for proper dilution and aeration.

How do I prevent the champagne from going flat?

Add champagne as the final step just before serving, and use a well-chilled coupe or flute glass to slow carbonation loss.