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. As the temperatures climb however, I’m reminded of my year-long booze break challenge and the fact that this cocktail is loaded with booze and champagne. Faced with the terrible tragedy of a French 75-free spring and, potentially summer if I continue the challenge, I had to take matters into my own hands. Enter the zero proof French 75 and a crisis averted!
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 enjoy.
(*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. That means to your health in French, which is appropriate given the fact that it’s a more healthful version of a typically boozy cocktail. Enjoy !
Lagniappe:
Don’t think for a minute that I’d leave out the tipplers. Here’s a full proof version for you.
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 and enjoy.
Cheers!
