French 75 Mocktail Recipe

The French 75 Mocktail is a non-alcoholic version of the classic French 75 cocktail, which is traditionally made with gin, champagne, lemon juice, and sugar. The mocktail version captures the essence of the original while providing a sophisticated option for those who prefer to abstain from alcohol.

• Origin: The original French 75 cocktail was created in the early 20th century, named after the French 75mm field gun, reputed for its precision and speed.
• Popularity: The mocktail version has gained popularity as part of the growing trend towards sober living and sophisticated non-alcoholic beverages.
• Ideal for: This drink is perfect for celebratory occasions, brunches, or anyone who enjoys a refreshing and bubbly drink without the alcohol.

The French 75 Mocktail has a crisp and effervescent taste, with a delightful balance of tart and sweet. The citrus notes from the lemon provide a refreshing zing, while the non-alcoholic sparkling wine adds a sophisticated fizz that tickles the palate.

• The French 75 Mocktail is named after the French 75 cocktail, which in turn was named after a piece of artillery used in World War I.
• This mocktail can be enjoyed at any time of the day due to its non-alcoholic nature.
• It's a popular choice for toasting at celebrations such as weddings and baby showers where guests may prefer or require non-alcoholic options.

1. Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
2. Add 0.5 oz of lemon juice and 0.5 oz of simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a champagne flute.
5. Top up with 3 oz of non-alcoholic sparkling wine.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist.

• Chill the champagne flute before pouring the mocktail to keep it extra cold.
• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
• When garnishing with the lemon twist, make sure to twist it over the drink to release the essential oils into the mocktail.

The French 75 Mocktail has a bright, citrusy flavor with a refreshing fizz that makes it quite versatile for pairing. Here are some food pairing suggestions:

• Appetizers: Light seafood appetizers like shrimp cocktail, smoked salmon canapés, or oysters fit the delicate and uplifting citrus notes of the mocktail.
• Cheese: Soft cheeses such as brie, camembert, or a mild goat cheese will complement the acidity and sweetness of the drink.
• Desserts: Lemon tarts, fruit sorbets, or a simple berry salad could echo the lemony zest of the mocktail, making for a harmonious dessert pairing.
• Brunch: Perfect for a brunch setting, pair it with eggs benedict, avocado toast, or even a classic French toast.

Remember to balance the flavors and not to overpower the mocktail with overly spicy or rich dishes.

• Non-alcoholic sparkling wine can be substituted with sparkling apple cider or ginger ale for a different twist.
• If simple syrup is not available, you can dissolve sugar in equal parts of hot water to create a homemade version.

Cucumber & Mint 75 Mocktail

• Ingredients: In addition to the original, add 2-3 fresh mint leaves and a few slices of cucumber.
• Recipe: Muddle the mint and cucumber slices with the simple syrup before shaking with lemon juice and ice. Strain into the flute and top with non-alcoholic sparkling wine.
• Taste: This twist will bring a herbal freshness to the mocktail, elevating its refreshing qualities with the cucumber's coolness and mint's bright flavor.

Hibiscus 75 Mocktail

• Ingredients: Add 1 oz of hibiscus tea (cooled) to the original ingredients.
• Recipe: Shake the hibiscus tea with lemon juice, simple syrup, and ice. Strain and pour into the flute, then add the sparkling wine.
• Flavor: The hibiscus adds a floral note and a beautiful pink hue, creating a more complex and slightly tart mocktail.

Ginger Spice 75 Mocktail

• Ingredients: Add 0.5 oz of ginger syrup to the original ingredients.
• Recipe: Shake the ginger syrup with the lemon juice and simple syrup, then add ice and shake again. Strain into the flute and finish with the sparkling wine.
• Taste and Feel: The ginger adds a spicy kick that contrasts the lemon's brightness, making for a zesty and warming mocktail perfect for cooler weather.