Cranberry French 75

There’s something magical about the marriage of champagne and gin in the French 75—a cocktail that embodies the elegance of celebration. It’s a drink that feels timeless yet light, with a touch of effervescence perfect for any special occasion. But when you introduce a splash of tart cranberry, the classic French 75 transforms into something more seasonal and richly layered, making it the ideal signature cocktail for your next gathering.

The Cranberry French 75 is the perfect cocktail for ushering in the holiday season or adding a touch of festive flair to any celebration. The delicate bubbles of champagne pair beautifully with the bright, tart flavor of cranberry, while the botanical notes of gin add depth and complexity. It’s the kind of cocktail that feels both indulgent and refreshing, making it equally suitable for a lively party or a cozy night by the fire.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz gin

• ½ oz fresh lemon juice

• ½ oz cranberry syrup (recipe below)

• Champagne or sparkling wine

• Fresh cranberries and lemon twists for garnish

For the Cranberry Syrup:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup sugar

Instructions:

Make the Cranberry Syrup:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, water, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.

2. Once the cranberries begin to burst and the liquid turns a rich ruby red, reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Remove from heat and strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing on the cranberries to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids and let the syrup cool completely. This can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Make the Cocktail:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, lemon juice, and cranberry syrup with ice. Shake well until chilled.

2. Strain the mixture into a champagne flute or coupe glass.

3. Top with champagne or sparkling wine, filling the glass to the top.

4. Garnish with a few fresh cranberries and a twist of lemon for a pop of color and a hint of citrus aroma.

Here’s to raising your glass to life’s small celebrations—cheers!