Cocktails are full of intrigue. In addition to intricately blending spirits they reflect drinking trends and imprint historical narratives. Some are even intertwined with prominent moments in time: how FDR defended the Dirty Martini for example. In a similar vein is the French 75 which takes its name from World War I.
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The origin of the famous drink: The French 75
The drink dates back to that tumultuous part of the 20th century first mixed by a bartender in Paris. Many credit bar owner Henry Tépé with creating the first batch though as with many stories in mixology the exact source is uncertain. What is known is that the drink appeared in print—specifically The Washington Herald—in 1915 under the name Soixante Quinze which translates to 75 in French. The number is a reference to the highly effective 75mm French field gun used during the ongoing war.
Such a naming was more than just a joke about the drink’s potency. Developed in secret in the late 19th century the cannon revolutionized the nature of artillery. The weapon gave France a newfound advantage in World War I through its speed portability and lethality. It became a symbolic source of pride that was reflected in much of the cultural output of the era. Although it was located close to the active front lines Parisian bars were in full swing at the time mixing strong slings with whatever spirits were available. The cocktail’s name arose as a mark of national pride in just such a drinking context.
Today’s French 75 packs quite a punch with a shot of gin lemon juice and simple syrup topped with dry Champagne. Served in a flute it’s a drink that offers a delicate balance of dry and tart notes all in a stylish — but dangerously drinkable — form.
