The French 75 is an exquisite gin cocktail that epitomises sophistication. Created during World War I, it’s named after the powerful French 75mm field gun, symbolising its potency.
This effervescent delight combines gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne, resulting in a vibrant cocktail that’s perfect for celebrations and elegant evenings.
During my many years as a barman, I discovered that to achieve the ultimate French 75, one must select a gin that complements and enhances the zesty and bubbly nature of this cocktail.
Best Gins for a French 75
When it comes to crafting the best French 75, selecting a quality gin is crucial. Here are my top eight picks for a French 75 to remember.
1. Tanqueray No. 10 Gin
Overview
- Distiller: Tanqueray
- ABV: 47.3% (84.6 Proof)
- Country: England
- Colour: Clear
Review
Distilled with citrus fruits, chamomile flowers, and herbal botanicals, Tanqueray No. 10 Gin is a classy choice for a plethora of well-crafted gin cocktails.
This London Dry gin has a bright citrus profile and smooth finish, enhancing the lemon and champagne elements in a French 75, making it a classic choice for this classic cocktail.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
2. Opihr Black Lemon Gin
Overview
- Distiller: Opihr
- ABV: 43% (86 Proof)
- Country: England
- Colour: Clear
Review
Opihr Black Lemon Gin is an exotic, adventurous gin with a unique blend of botanicals inspired by the ancient spice route. Featuring black lemons and Timut peppers.
Its spicy citrus character adds an exciting twist to the traditional French 75, providing this classic cocktail with a zesty and slightly exotic spiced flavour.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
3. Silent Pool Rose Expression Gin
Overview
- Distiller: Silent Pool
- ABV: 43% (86 Proof)
- Country: England
- Colour: Clear
Review
Silent Pool Rose Expression Gin is a beautifully crafted gin infused with rose petals and lavender. It’s a gin that exudes elegance and sophistication.
Its floral notes complement the lemon and champagne, adding an aromatic layer that elevates the classic French 75 to a new level of elegance.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
4. Nikka Coffey Gin
Overview
- Distiller: Nikka
- ABV: 47% (94 Proof)
- Country: Japan
- Colour: Clear
Review
Nikka Coffey Gin is a distinctive Japanese gin crafted with traditional gin botanicals plus unique Japanese ingredients like yuzu, kabosu, and sansho pepper.
For me, it’s the unique citrus and spice blend enhances the cocktail’s brightness and adds an intriguing depth, making each sip more interesting.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
5. Scapegrace Black Premium Gin
Overview
- Distiller: Scapegrace
- ABV: 41.6% (83.2 Proof)
- Country: New Zealand
- Colour: Black
Review
Scapegrace Black Premium Gin is a visually striking gin with an unconventional profile using botanicals like aronia berries, saffron, and pineapple.
It is this very fruity and spicy character that delivers fruity and spicy to the French 75, making it a more vibrant and exciting cocktail.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
6. Bombay Sapphire Gin
Overview
- Distiller: Bombay Sapphire
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: England
- Colour: Clear
Review
Bombay Sapphire Gin is a classic celebrated for its balanced and smooth profile. A versatile juniper-forward gin with citrus, and a touch of earthy spice.
I love its balanced profile that complements the lemon and champagne without overpowering them, making it a superior choice for a classic French 75.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
7. Beefeater 24 Gin
Overview
- Distiller: Beefeater
- ABV: 45% (90 Proof)
- Country: England
- Colour: Red
Review
Beefeater 24 Gin is a refined gin with an aromatic and balanced blend of twelve botanicals, including Japanese Sencha tea and Chinese green tea.
Its unique blend of Oriental botanicals adds a layer of sophistication to the French 75, enhancing its complexity and depth.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
8. Malfy Gin Con Limone Gin
Overview
- Distiller: Malfy
- ABV: 41% (82 Proof)
- Country: Italy
- Colour: Clear
Review
Malfy Gin Con Limone is an Italian gin infused with lemons from the Amalfi Coast. It’s a bright, citrus-forward gin that embodies the essence of Italian sunshine and zest.
Its zesty lemon profile perfectly complements the lemon juice and champagne in a French 75, enhancing the cocktail’s refreshing and lively character.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
Andrew’s Top Pick
Opihr Black Lemon Gin
With its Oriental blend of black lemons and Timut peppers, Opihr Black Lemon Gin is my top pick for the ultimate French 75 cocktail as it really pings with the champagne bubbles.
Conclusion
Choosing the right gin is essential for crafting the perfect French 75. Each of these gins brings its unique character and flavour profile, enhancing the cocktail in diverse ways.
Also Read: Tart, Sweet, or Sour: 7 Best Cherry Gins You Need to Taste
Whether you prefer the bright citrus notes of Tanqueray No. 10 or the exotic spice of Ophir Black Lemon, there’s a gin here that will elevate your French 75 experience.
So, the next time you’re mixing up this classic cocktail, consider one of these impeccable gins to ensure your French 75 is one to remember.
Also Read: 9 First-Class Gins for the Perfect Aviation Cocktail
Further Reading
Below are some additional articles from The Drinks Geek blog. We write articles on several fascinating areas of drinks, including different brands, drink types, cocktail recipes and more.
