It’s believed  this drink was devised by American soldiers in World War I who were homesick for a good ole Tom Collins.  Gin and lemons were available but not so with the soda. What was available in abundance was Champagne. The result of their creative cocktail-ery was a sparkling and refreshing indulgence named after the French-made 75-millimeter guns used during the war.

FRENCH 75

INGREDIENTS:

Ice

1 ounce gin

1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice

1/2 ounce Simple Syrup

4 ounces chilled brut Champagne

lemon rind twist

INSTRUCTIONS:

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the gin, lemon juice and Simple Syrup and shake well. Strain into a chilled flute and stir in the Champagne. Add a twist of lemon rind for garnish.