75 Cocktail (Vermeire's 1922 recipe)

The story

The 75 Cocktail, attributed to bartender Harry MacElhone in the early 20th century, is a variation of the classic French 75. The original French 75 was created during World War I and combined gin, champagne, lemon juice, and sugar, named after the French 75mm field gun. This version, featuring Calvados and grenadine, emerged later, showcasing the versatility of the base ingredients and the enduring popularity of gin cocktails.

How it tastes

The 75 Cocktail offers a balanced profile of botanical gin, fruity Calvados, and a hint of sweetness from grenadine, complemented by the acidity of fresh lemon juice. It is refreshing and slightly tart, making it suitable for warm-weather occasions or as a pre-dinner drink.

Getting it right

Proper shaking is crucial to achieve a well-chilled and diluted cocktail. Fine straining ensures a smooth texture by removing ice shards and pulp, while the garnish of lemon zest adds aromatic oils that enhance the drink's overall experience.

Variations

• French 75 — The classic version, made with gin, champagne, lemon juice, and sugar, is a sparkling take on the cocktail.
• Elderflower 75 — Substitutes elderflower liqueur for grenadine, adding floral notes and a different sweetness.

Substitutions

• Calvados — Apple brandy or applejack can be used as alternatives to Calvados.
• Grenadine — Homemade grenadine made from pomegranate juice and sugar can replace commercial versions.

Questions

Can I use vodka instead of gin?

While vodka can be substituted, it will alter the cocktail's botanical flavor profile, making it less characteristic of the original.

What is the best gin to use?

A dry gin with a balanced botanical profile, like Rutte Dry Gin, works best, but any quality gin can be used.

Is it possible to make this drink non-alcoholic?

You can create a non-alcoholic version by using non-alcoholic gin alternatives and a mix of apple juice and lemon for flavor.

This text was drafted by a language model from the catalogue’s data and is machine-translated outside English.

Updated October 10, 2026