Gincinnati
French 75
In 1916, before America entered World War I, a group of thirty-eight American fighter pilots, all volunteers, went to France and joined the Lafayette Escadrille, a small squadron that was part of the French air service.
The American pilots quickly developed a taste for French champagne, but wanted a bit more kick to it, so they added some cognac. They christened their concoction the French 75 after the French 75mm howitzer artillery piece used in the war.
At some point, this drink crossed the channel and became popular in Britain. The Brits, however, added gin instead of cognac. Either addition works well.
The war is long over, the howitzer has ceased fire, but the French 75 remains a popular cocktail. Vive la France!
1 1/2 ounces gin
1 sugar cube
Dash of lemon juice, freshly squeezed
Champagne to top
In a mixing glass, muddle the sugar cube and lemon juice together. Add gin and ice and shake. Strain into a champagne flute and top off with champagne. Garnish with a lemon twist.
– from Handcrafted Cocktails: The Mixologist's Guide to Classic Drinks for Morning, Noon & Night by Molly Wellmann
You still have a few shopping days left until World Gin Day (Saturday, June 10)! If you’re still scrambling to find the perfect gift for the cocktail connoisseur on your list, there’s no better choice than Cincinnati Gin!
Cincinnati Gin, released earlier this Spring by Northern Row Distillery’s Five Stories Gin, was created by local cocktailologist Molly Wellmann.
“I’ve had an idea to bring to Cincinnati a gin using botanicals from Krohn Conservatory for years!,” Wellmann shared in a social media post. “Knowing the team at Five Stories is as passionate as I am about Cincinnati, I knew they were the ones to bring this idea to life!”
Described as ginger forward, the gin has with floral notes from juniper, lime and bay leaves grown at Krohn Conservatory, with notes of mandarin orange peel, rounded out with vanilla and cocoa nibs.
Of course, there’s no better way to celebrate than champagne! Check out Molly Wellmann’s recipe for the French 75, which combines gin and champagne into a delightful summer cocktail. Cheers!