The French 75 cocktail is named after the 75mm howitzer artillery gun, a popular weapon during World War I.  Legend has it that fighter pilot Raoul Lufbery enjoyed champagne, but wanted to drink something with more of a kick.  So, naturally, he added booze to it.

The drink was said to have such a kick that it was similar to being hit by the 75mm gun.  Not surprisingly, the French 75 was popular with the “Lost Generation” of American ex-pats, including Ernest Hemingway, living in Paris post WWI.

French 75

2 ounces gin
3/4 ounce lemon juice
3/4 ounce simple syrup
Champagne

Shake gin, lemon juice and simple syrup with ice, and strain into a champagne flute. Top with champagne, and garnish with a long, thin lemon spiral.

A note on the photo: It’s my goal to take pictures before downing half the drink, but sometimes I get carried away.