COCKTAILS
Classic French Cocktails
The Timeless Canon
The classic French cocktail canon is a study in elegance and restraint. From the effervescent French 75 to the bittersweet Kir Royale, these drinks share a common philosophy: quality ingredients, precise technique, and a respect for the flavours of France. They are drinks that have endured because they are, simply, perfect.
RECIPES
The Recipes
French 75
Gin or Cognac
INGREDIENTS
45ml gin, 22ml fresh lemon juice, 15ml simple syrup, 60ml Champagne
METHOD
Shake gin, lemon, and syrup with ice. Strain into a chilled flute. Top with Champagne. Garnish with a lemon twist.
The most civilised drink ever invented — simultaneously a cocktail and a glass of Champagne.
Kir Royale
Champagne
INGREDIENTS
15ml Crème de Cassis, 120ml Champagne
METHOD
Pour Crème de Cassis into a chilled flute. Top with cold Champagne. Do not stir.
The aperitif of Burgundy — simple, elegant, and endlessly satisfying.
Sidecar
Cognac
INGREDIENTS
50ml Cognac, 20ml Cointreau, 20ml fresh lemon juice
METHOD
Shake all ingredients with ice. Strain into a sugar-rimmed coupe. Garnish with an orange twist.
The great Cognac cocktail — tart, rich, and perfectly balanced.
Vieux Carré
Cognac & Rye
INGREDIENTS
22ml Cognac, 22ml rye whiskey, 22ml sweet vermouth, 7ml Bénédictine, 2 dashes Peychaud's bitters
METHOD
Stir all ingredients with ice. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with a lemon twist.
New Orleans meets Paris — a drink of extraordinary complexity and depth.
FROM THE JOURNAL