The French 75: A Sparkling Icon of Refined Gin Craft
There are cocktails that charm, cocktails that refresh, and then there are cocktails that simply elevate. The French 75 sits firmly in the latter category — a drink that marries the crisp backbone of gin with the celebratory sparkle of Champagne. For the Mekong Gin Society, it’s a perfect example of how classic gin cocktails continue to evolve while preserving the elegance that made them timeless.
Few drinks manage to feel both effortlessly light and structurally complex, and that’s why the French 75 remains a favourite among connoisseurs. It’s a cocktail that rewards precision: the right gin, the right acid balance, and the right bubbles. When executed with intention, it transforms into a showcase of gin’s botanical profile, layered aromatics, and luxurious texture.
A Brief History of the French 75
The French 75 first appeared in print in the 1920s, most famously in Harry Craddock’s Savoy Cocktail Book of 1930. Its name refers to the Canon de 75 modèle 1897 — a French field gun celebrated for its speed and force. Early drinkers claimed the cocktail hit with similar power, though today the French 75 is celebrated more for finesse than firepower.
Its origins, like many pre-Prohibition drinks, are a blend of myth and migration. Some historians believe it began as a Champagne “improved” with gin to strengthen it. Others link it to American soldiers stationed in Europe during World War I, who mixed local sparkling wine with the gin they carried from home.
Regardless of which story you prefer, the cocktail’s evolution reflects global tastes shifting toward refined, balanced stirred drinks and sparkling refreshment — a trend that continues to resonate in cities like Phnom Penh, where modern drinkers appreciate both its heritage and its lifted, citrus-forward flavour.
Ingredients & Rationale
Recommended for Mekong Gin Society Members
45 ml (1.5 oz) Sông Cái Dry Gin
20 ml (0.66 oz) fresh lemon juice
15 ml (0.5 oz) simple syrup (1:1)
90–120 ml (3–4 oz) dry Champagne or quality Brut sparkling wine
Optional: lemon twist or thin zest ribbon
Why these ingredients work
Sông Cái’s Dry Gin offers floral depth and subtle spice notes that shine through the citrus while remaining delicate enough not to fight the Champagne. The fresh lemon juice provides the necessary acid lift, while the syrup softens the edges without masking the botanicals.
Using a dry sparkling wine ensures the cocktail remains crisp rather than sweet, allowing the gin’s citrus, juniper, and herbal structure to lead. Every ingredient is chosen to preserve the drink's clarity — a hallmark of French 75 perfection.
Service & Presentation
The French 75 is all about poise, so technique and glassware matter.
Shake the gin, lemon juice, and syrup with ice — briefly but firmly.
Strain into a chilled Champagne flute or coupe glass.
Top gently with Champagne to maintain bubbles without disturbing the clarity.
Garnish with a fine lemon twist, curling it over the surface to release oils.
The ideal ice for shaking is standard bar ice, but avoid small shards — clarity is part of the sensory experience. A tall, narrow flute enhances bubble retention; a coupe shifts focus toward aroma, making it a great option for those who enjoy craft cocktail garnishes and botanical-driven aromatics.
Interesting Notes & Variations
The Original Might Not Have Used Champagne
Early recipes sometimes called for sparkling wine that was drier, flatter, or even still — making today’s version considerably more elegant and celebratory.There’s a Cognac Version
Some historical versions used Cognac instead of gin. While delicious, modern enthusiasts overwhelmingly prefer gin, as its crispness and botanicals create better harmony with sparkling wine.Japan’s Influence on Modern French 75s
Tokyo and Osaka bars helped popularize ultra-refined versions with hand-carved ice, yuzu twists, and high-mineral sparkling water — approaches that resonate with the modern Asian cocktail aesthetic.
Conclusion
The French 75 remains a testament to finesse: a cocktail that balances strength and delicacy, refreshment and depth. For Mekong Gin Society members, it represents the artistry of gin craft — the way botanicals, citrus, and bubbles can converge in effortless harmony.
Whether prepared at home or at one of Phnom Penh’s refined bars, the French 75 invites you to slow down, savour, and appreciate the elegance inherent in great gin. And in a world where cocktail culture keeps evolving, this sparkling icon remains a reminder that perfection often lies in simplicity executed with precision.