How to Make a Holiday French 75
The Holiday French 75 is a sophisticated cocktail with a seasonal twist, making it a perfect choice for festive celebrations. This classic drink gets a holiday makeover with the addition of cranberry simple syrup, which adds a sweet-tart, ruby-hued brightness that mirrors the cheerful colors of the season. The gin and fresh lemon juice provide a crisp, zesty base, while the champagne adds an effervescent sparkle that’s synonymous with holiday cheer. Garnished with a sprig of rosemary or sugared cranberries, it becomes a visually stunning centerpiece for any gathering. Its balance of elegance and festive flavor makes it ideal for holiday parties, New Year’s Eve toasts, or cozy evenings by the fire.
Ingredients
1 oz Gin (or substitute with spiced gin for extra holiday warmth)
1/2 oz Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice
1/2 oz Cranberry Simple Syrup
3 oz Champagne or Sparkling Wine (chilled)
Fresh Rosemary Sprig or Sugared Cranberries (for garnish)
Suggested Wines
Caposaldo Prosecco
Bouvet Ladubay Saphir
Poema Cava
Alta Vista Brut Nature
Instructions
- Make the cranberry simple syrup (ahead of time): Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 1/2 cup fresh cranberries in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the sugar dissolves. Strain and cool completely before using.
- Prepare the cocktail: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the gin, lemon juice, and cranberry simple syrup. Shake well for about 15 seconds.
- Strain and pour: Strain the mixture into a chilled champagne flute or coupe glass.
- Top with bubbles: Gently top with 3 oz of champagne or sparkling wine.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary for a festive touch or a skewer of sugared cranberries to add sparkle.
