The Tart French 75: A Bright, Bubbly Twist on a Classic

There's a reason the French 75 has outlived nearly every cocktail trend since World War I. It's elegant, it's effervescent, and it manages to feel celebratory whether you're toasting something big or just making a Tuesday evening a little more interesting. This version leans to the tarter side — all the bright snap of fresh lemon, with just enough simple syrup to round the edges. If you prefer something softer and sweeter, I've left the classic measurements in parentheses so you can dial it in to your taste.

Simple Syrup

1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water.

For the Cocktail

1oz Gin

1oz fresh squeezed lemon Juice (normally 1/2oz)

1/4 oz simple syrup (normally 1/2oz)

Top with Sparkling Wine (3oz approx)

Dehydrated lemon slice or fresh lemon twist for decoration (optional)

Make simple syrup ahead of time: In a saucepan over low heat, warm sugar in 1 cup water until dissolved. Cool to room temperature before using. I keep the remaining cold simple syrup in a plastic water bottle in the fridge and put the name on the bottle with masking tape and a sharpie.

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, shake gin, lemon juice and ½ ounce simple syrup.

Strain into chilled flute or cocktail coupe. Top with sparkling wine or champagne. Garnish with a dehydrated lemon slice