The French 75 is my favorite cocktail. I love the lore. I love its namesake bar at Arnaud’s in the French Quarter. I love sipping a Cognac version during colder months. I love the lighter take made with gin in the hotter months. During the holidays when the booze is already so free flowing however (and with carnival season around the corner), it’s good to break things up with something non-alcoholic, but still festive and sophisticated. Enter the zero proof French 75. (Don’t worry tipplers, I included a full proof version for you, too.) Cheers!
Zero Proof French 75
1½ ounces zero proof gin (I use *Ritual Zero Proof Gin Alternative)
¼ ounce simple syrup or to taste
½ ounce fresh lemon juice
top off with dealcoholized champagne (I use *Freixenet Nonalcoholic Sparkling Wine)
Combine zero proof gin, simple syrup and fresh lemon juice in a champagne glass; top off with dealcoholized champagne. Garnish with a twist of lemon and sip. (*Both Ritual and Freixenet are available locally at Total Wine & More in Metairie or online, direct from the respective makers.)
À votre santé, y’all. Or “to your health” in French, which is appropriate given the fact that it’s a more healthful version of a typically boozy cocktail. Enjoy!
Classic French 75
1½ ounces of your favorite gin (I like something high on the botanicals)
¼ ounce simple syrup or to taste
½ ounce fresh lemon juice
top off with your favorite champagne or sparkling
Combine gin, simple syrup and fresh lemon juice in a champagne glass; top off with champagne. Garnish with a twist of lemon. Enjoy (in moderation, of course)!
