Supposedly concocted by the Franco-American World War I flying ace Raoul Lufbery who was part of the Escadrille Americaine air fighting unit, a French 75 is a champagne cocktail with some very potent after-effects. Legend states that Mr. Lufbery liked champagne but wanted something with a little more kick to it, so he added in some cognac which he just happened to find lying around. He also owned a pet lion named Whiskey (for real).

The drink has some very potent after effects, because at this point some type of evil chemistry takes place – the combination was said to have felt like being shelled by a powerful French 75mm Howitzwer artillery piece (seen above). I can say from personal experience that even though I’ve never been shot by that cannon, after having three of these cocktails I have a pretty good idea what that might feel like. The drink became popularized in the United States after it was served at the legendary Stork Club nightclub in New York City. Just a few simple ingredients…you’ll never know what hit you.

Ernest Hemingway, Sherman Billingsley (club owner & founder) and writer John O’Hara enjoying some libations at The Stork Club.

French 75

• 2 oz of Cognac or Dry Gin
• 1 teaspoon superfine Sugar
• 1/2 oz of Lemon Juice
• Champagne

Combine Gin, Sugar, and Juice in a cocktail shaker with cracked ice and vigorously shake. Pour into a large champagne dish, or Collins glass filled half way with cracked ice. Top off with Champagne. Garnish with a thin orange slice or cherry.

Filed under: Food & Drink, History by Stephen : 1 Comment »