The French 75, named after the potent 75mm field gun used by the French military during World War I, has a history as rich and heady as the cocktail itself. It was concocted during the war years, with its powerful kick being likened to the impact of an artillery piece. The original recipe called for a mix of gin, lemon juice, sugar, and Champagne, a combination that packed a punch and was notably popular among soldiers.
After the war, the French 75 found its place in the glitz and glamour of the Roaring Twenties. It made its printed debut in "Harry's ABC of Mixing Cocktails" by Harry MacElhone, the proprietor of Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, a popular spot for American soldiers during and after the war. Later, the cocktail gained literary fame when it was mentioned in classic works like "The Long Goodbye" by Raymond Chandler. Over the years, the French 75 has evolved but remains a classic, embodying a timeless mix of sophistication and strength.