I recently took a mixology class and learned so many fun facts about bar tools, simple syrups and tips on how to make the perfect cocktail.
There were so many questions swirling in my head in the class like why use a jigger? Answer: because a perfect cocktail is perfectly measured. What type of ice cube trays do I use? Tovolo for whiskey drinkers. What’s a muddler? A bar tool to mush up limes for an extraordinary drink called a Daiwa.
So, with my new cocktail knowledge and New Years Eve coming up, I’ve decided to serve the French 75 cocktail as the official drink since champagne is a mark of celebration to begin every new year!
Before I pour on the recipe for you, I have a few helpful holiday cocktail gift ideas and tips I’d like to share with you:
- Instead of bringing wine to a dinner party, why not wrap up a bottle of St. George Terroir, which is a pungent gin. And throw in some fresh limes for a fun and festive presentation.
- Instead of offering a bottle of champagne as a hostess gift (I can’t believe I’m recommending this. Ha!) wrap up a bottle of Gran Classico with allspice dram for a wintry spice cocktail like the Hot Toddy. Don’t forget to include all the essentials to make it a great gift!
- Instead of serving a dirty martini, why not serve a Fernet and Coke; an experience to bring people together. Jaja!
- Don’t buy simple syrup, even if the recipe calls for it. It’s simply equal parts sugar and water. I suggest using refined sugar. Boil until the sugar is dissolved and then let it cool. It’s that simple!
- There’s no need to buy a basic sour mix either. It has a two parts base; 1 part sour (lemon or lime) and 1 part sweet (fruit or flavored simple syrups). Balance the sweet and sour by measuring everything.
Now, here’s the recipe for a French 75:
Ingredients
1 ounce Gin
3/4 ounce fresh lime juice (ONLY use fresh)
3/4 ounce simple syrup (see above tip #4)
1 bottle of Veuve Clicquot
Directions
Combine all of the above with ice in a tin mixer, shake and strain into a flute. Top with Veuve Clicquot. Yum!
What’s your favorite drink to mix? Best tip? Let me know by commenting below! And, if you’d like help coming up with your next event’s drink menu—Just Ask me!
Best Cocktails in SF: Trick Dog
Cheers to the new year!
