Liquor Laboratory

15 Best Gin for French 75 Cocktail Ranked (2024 Updated)

Best Gin for French 75

The French 75 cocktail has been making headlines due to its unique flavor. It’s a combination of the classic gin flavors, fresh lemon juice, and Champagne. 

But did you know you can make this classic cocktail at home with the right gin bottles?

If you want to create your own version of this great cocktail, here are the best gins for French 75.  

Top 15 Best Gin For French 75 Cocktail 

15. Beefeater 

Bottle and a Glass of Beefeater Gin

Average Price: approx. $19/750ml 

Alcohol Content: 47% ABV 

Why We Like It: Beefeater gin is one of the most popular London dry gins. It’s a benchmark for its robust and juniper-forward aroma, with grass and flower notes.  

This full-bodied spirit also boosts citrus notes along with the traditional gin flavors.

We usually pair it with sparkling wine or any Champagne and lemon for a perfect French 75. 

14. Seven Three Distilling Co. Gentilly Gin

Average Price: approx. $24.99/750ml

Alcohol Content: 43.5% ABV 

Why We Like It: This spirit uses seventeen unique herbs, including a few extracted from Cajun folk remedies. 

Made with a traditional blend of Coriander seeds and juniper, it’s an approachable refresher for the novice and an excellent addition to cocktails like French 75. 

Actually, its proof is lower than other brands on this list, so it’s recommended for beginners. It’s an excellent mix of lemon juice, sparkling wine, tonic water, and simple syrup. 

You can make a variety of tasty cocktails like Tom Collins out of this. 

13. Bobby’s Schiedam Jenever

Pouring Bottle of Bobby’s Schiedam Jenever on a Jigger

Average Price: approx. $35/750ml 

Alcohol Content: 38% ABV 

Why We Like It: If you want to take your Frech 75 cocktail to the next level, make it extra special using this limited-edition Bobby’s Schiedam Jenever. 

Although low-proof, its malt spirit base provides a nutty, bready, and lightweight texture, elevating the spices’ herbaceous and citric characteristics. 

Besides, it’s all-natural, has no additives, and has a pure citrus taste.

12. Aviation Gin

Aviation Gin Bottles

Average Price: approx. $24.99/700ml 

Alcohol Content: 42% ABV 

Why We Like It: Aviation is the perfect gin if you’re looking for refreshing and floral aromas of lemon, sarsaparilla, anise seed, and juniper combined with the gin’s robust and bright flavors. 

What we like about Aviation gin compared to other gins is that it goes well with or without food pouring. 

The several botanicals of Aviation might be too overpowering for some, but when mixed in cocktails, it complements other flavors nicely.

Read: Recommended Sweet Vermouths For Negronis

11. Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin

Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin Bottle and a Glass

Average Price: approx. $41.99/375ml 

Alcohol Content: 47% ABV

Why We Like It: Since the French 75 is a great drink to welcome everyone to a cocktail party or any holiday season celebration, it’s a must to use a vibrant and refreshing gin.

The Monkey 47, a German gin, can be your best bet if you want other botanicals on the drinks. 

Aside from the usual botanical flavors, this dry gin has spruce, acacia, and French lavender notes. 

10. Empress Gin

Hand Holding Empress Gin

Average Price: approx. $39/750ml 

Alcohol Content: 42.5% ABV 

Why We Like It: The inspiration for this Canadian gin came from the high tea service offered at the Empress Hotel in British Columbia in 1908. 

It uses black tea, butterfly pea blossom, and gin botanicals to create a unique and flavorful drink. 

If you’re a gin fan, this drink will make a splash in a French 75 or any gin-based cocktail. 

9. Nikka Coffey Gin

Close Up Shot of Nikka Coffey Gin Bottle

Average Price: approx. $46/750ml 

Alcohol Content: 47% ABV

Why We Like It: Nikka Coffey gin is produced in Hokkaido, Japan. It is uniquely made using a column still, the same type of equipment used in producing brown liquors like rye and bourbon. 

Nikka Coffey has a crisp taste, which is excellent in any classic cocktail. 

This Japanese gin features a unique combination of flavors, adding a new dimension to your favorite French 75. It has floral flavors, including cherry blossom, yuzu, and kombu.

8. Hendrick’s Midsummer Solstice 

Man Holding Bottle of Hendrick's Midsummer Solstice

Average Price: approx. $34.99/750ml 

Alcohol Content: 43.4% ABV 

Why We Like It: Perfect for the summer season, Midsummer Solstice from the House of Hendrick is a lighter version of the company’s signature style. 

It’s pleasant and aromatic, which will stand out on any gin-based cocktail. We tried mixing it with lavender and simple syrup, and it delivers an enjoyable drinking experience. 

Mixed in cocktail and served in Champagne flutes, this makes a good treat for your guests during their visit.   

7. Plymouth Gin

Bottle of Plymouth Gin

Average Price: approx. $33/750ml 

Alcohol Content: 41.2% ABV 

Why We Like It: This gin has unique botanical notes. At first, it’s like a London dry-style gin similar to the classic gin. It has subtle citrus notes and juniper on the nose. 

But, after a couple of sips, it starts getting complex with much more going on. 

We like the combination of herbs and baking spices, including cardamom, orris root, and angelica root, adding a bit of flavor to any cocktail, particularly the French 75. 

Compared to other gin brands, Plymouth is a good sipping drink with the perfect herbal spice. 

6. Sipsmith London Dry Gin

Bottle and a Glass of Sipsmith London Dry Gin

Average Price: approx. $35/750ml 

Alcohol Content: 41.6% ABV 

Why We Like It: One of the most popular ways to create the French 75s is by using Sipsmith London dry gin [1]—a classic style similar to gins used during the early 20th century.

“Fortunately, there is gin, the sole glimmer in this darkness. Do you feel the golden, copper-colored light it kindles in you? I like walking through the city of an evening in the warmth of gin.”

– Albert Camus, French Philosopher

We like the balance of juniper and citrus notes, which adds to any cocktail’s flavors. It tastes great with lemon juice and sparkling wine. Serve it mixed in a Champagne flute, and that’s heaven. 

5. The Botanist Islay Dry Gin

The Botanist Islay Dry Gin Bottle and a Glass of Cocktail Drink

Average Price: approx. $33.99/750ml 

Alcohol Content: 46% ABV 

Why We Like It: The Botanist’s complexity and spirit’s expressiveness make this gin perfect for any occasion. 

All 22 of the gin’s botanical extracts foraged in Scotland’s Isle of Islay were hand-crafted and distilled for a unique take.

The Botanist offers an enticing blend of floral, herbal, and citrus notes that will elevate the experience of any French 75 [2]. 

Also, its citrus and floral finish is unlike most gins, making it an appealing choice for those new to the gin world.

4. Bombay Sapphire London Dry Gin

Pouring Bottle of Bombay Sapphire London Dry Gin

Average Price: approx. $24/750ml 

Alcohol Content: 47% ABV 

Why We Like It: The aroma of Bombay Sapphire gin is captivating. It has a medium-weight texture and is crystal clear. 

Bombay Sapphire is made with a combination of spices, with a juniper-forward taste and citrus flavor, giving a mouth-watering taste. 

The addition of Bombay Sapphire’s unique blend of herbal spices adds a bit of a surprise to the classic French 75.

3. Bluecoat Barrel-Finished Gin

Average Price: approx. $34.99/750ml 

Alcohol Content: 47% ABV 

Why We Like It: The barrel finishing process of this gin gives it rounder, softer notes, which is further enhanced by adding hints of whiskey and caramel without compromising the flavor notes of pepper and juniper. 

So no doubt—Bluecoat is a genuinely unique gin that’s vibrant and aromatic. While Bombay Sapphire has a distinctive blue bottle, Bluecoat gin has a simple blue-colored label. 

If you want complex spirit for your French 75, it is one of the good options. It’s not intense, but the flavors are rich.  

2. Barr Hill Tom Cat Gin

Bottle of Barr Hill Tom Cat Gin

Average Price: approx. $47.99/750ml

Alcohol Content: 45% ABV 

Why We Like It: Since a French 75 has simple syrup, you might want to add local honey notes. 

This Barr Hill Tom Cat gin uses honey from Vermont, and it has a unique flavor created by baking spices and lemon juice. So, we really enjoy its vibrant and bouncy citrus taste. 

Besides, it works well in any classic cocktail like French 75. Its barrel-aging for several months adds a deep flavor and robustness to cocktails.

1. Tanqueray London Dry Gin

Hand Holding Bottle of Tanqueray London Dry Gin

Average Price: approx. $17/750ml 

Alcohol Content: 47.3% ABV 

Why We Like It: This gin [3] base for French 75 is incredibly flavorful and has a clean taste and dry finish. Its citrus notes are complemented by the orange peel and grapefruit notes, making it an ideal choice for cocktails.

If you want a remarkable drinking experience, stock up your liquor cabinet with Tanqueray London dry gin for the times you want to make a perfect drink to brighten your day. 

It’s not overly dry and a great addition to any gin-based drinks, like Frech 75, which tastes great with a lemon twist and sparkling wine.   

FAQs 

What kind of gin is best for a French 75?

The kind of gin best for a Frech 75 is a standard dry gin. Combined with sparkling wine and citrus-based beverages mixed in your cocktail shaker, you’d just make a classic French 75.

Is it better to use gin for French 75, not cognac?

It’s better to use gin for French 75 if you prefer the citrus and juniper combo in your cocktail. But you can also use cognac for French 75 for a different take. 

What Is the Best Gin to Use in a French 75 Cocktail?

The best gin for a French 75 cocktail is typically a London dry gin, known for its juniper-forward flavor profile that complements the other ingredients in the drink. Popular choices include Tanqueray, Beefeater, and Bombay Sapphire.

Does the Choice of Gin Affect the Taste of a French 75 Cocktail?

Yes, the choice of gin can significantly impact the taste of a French 75 cocktail. Opting for a high-quality gin with balanced botanicals and juniper notes enhances the overall flavor profile of the cocktail.

Should I Use a Specific Type of Gin for Making French 75 Cocktails?

While personal preference plays a role, using a London dry gin is traditionally preferred for making French 75 cocktails due to its classic flavor profile that complements the citrus and champagne components of the drink.

Are There Any Gin Brands Specifically Recommended for French 75 Cocktails?

Several gin brands are well-suited for crafting French 75 cocktails. Tanqueray, Beefeater, Bombay Sapphire, and Hendrick’s are among the popular choices favored by bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

Does the Quality of Gin Impact the Overall Enjoyment of a French 75 Cocktail?

Yes, using a high-quality gin enhances the taste and enjoyment of a French 75 cocktail by contributing to its balanced flavor profile and smooth finish. Investing in a reputable gin ensures a superior drinking experience.

Can I Experiment with Different Gin Varieties in My French 75 Cocktail?

Absolutely! Experimenting with different gin varieties allows you to customize your French 75 cocktail to suit your taste preferences. Consider trying variations with floral or citrus-forward gins for unique flavor profiles.

Is There a Preferred Gin-to-Champagne Ratio for French 75 Cocktails?

The ideal gin-to-champagne ratio for a French 75 cocktail is typically 1:2, though this can be adjusted based on personal preference. Balancing the gin and champagne ensures a harmonious blend of flavors.

Should I Garnish My French 75 Cocktail with any Specific Ingredients?

Traditionally, French 75 cocktails are garnished with a lemon twist or a lemon peel spiral. This citrus garnish complements the gin and champagne flavors while adding a visually appealing touch to the drink.

In Summary 

To make the best French 75, using the right spirit and ingredients is the key.

So if you have your chilled sparkling wine, lemon juice, and simple syrup ready, make sure you also have an excellent gin for French 75 for a tasty and refreshing experience. 

We recommend trying all these bottles to see which suits your tastebuds.  

References:

  1. https://theculturetrip.com/europe/united-kingdom/england/london/articles/why-is-london-dry-gin-called-that-and-how-is-it-made/ 
  2. https://www.ft.com/content/7d4dd6a1-619e-43f5-a4b1-83af097a9b49 
  3. https://www.britannica.com/topic/gin-liquor 
  4. https://robbreport.com/food-drink/spirits/best-french-75-recipe-champagne-gin-cocktail-1234585131/ 
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