A Lavender French 75 is one of those cocktails that feels like a warm breeze on a summer afternoon-light, floral, and just the right amount of bubbly. It’s a twist on the classic French 75, but with a fragrant splash of lavender syrup that adds a calming, slightly sweet note. I’ve made this drink countless times-here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: a little goes a long way with lavender. Too much, and it can taste a bit like perfume. Just enough, and it’s magic.
Lavender French 75
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Champagne flute or coupe
Ingredients
– 1 oz (30 ml) gin
– ½ oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
– ½ oz (15 ml) lavender syrup (store-bought or homemade-see tip below)
– Champagne, chilled, to top (about 2-3 oz / 60-90 ml)
– Ice
– Fresh lavender sprig or lemon twist, for garnish
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the gin, lemon juice, and lavender syrup.
- Shake well-about 10-15 seconds-until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a chilled champagne flute or coupe.
- Top with chilled champagne. You’ll hear that satisfying fizz as it hits the mix.
- Give it a gentle stir to blend, then garnish with a lavender sprig or a lemon twist.
Tips & Tricks
– Fresh lemon juice makes a huge difference-don’t skip it. Bottled juice just doesn’t bring the same brightness.
– Chill your champagne ahead of time so the drink stays crisp and refreshing.
– If you want to make your own lavender syrup: simmer 1 cup (240 ml) water, 1 cup (200 g) sugar, and 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender for about 5 minutes. Let it steep for 20 minutes, then strain and cool. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
– I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails-this one’s perfect for winding down after a long week.
Make-Ahead & Storage
– You can mix the gin, lemon juice, and lavender syrup ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for a few hours. Just shake with ice and top with champagne when you’re ready to serve.
– Store homemade lavender syrup in a sealed jar in the fridge. It’ll keep for up to 2 weeks.
Ingredient Swaps
– Gin: Swap with vodka for a smoother, less herbal flavor.
– Lavender syrup: Try elderflower syrup for a different floral twist.
– Champagne: Prosecco or another dry sparkling wine works great and is often more budget-friendly.
Flavor Variations
With Cucumber
– Muddle a few slices of cucumber with the gin before shaking. Adds a crisp, garden-fresh flavor.
With Rosemary
– Use rosemary syrup instead of lavender. It gives a slightly savory, woodsy edge.
With Blueberries
– Muddle a small handful of fresh blueberries with the gin. It adds a fruity touch and beautiful color.
Non-Alcoholic Version
– Use sparkling water instead of gin, and non-alcoholic sparkling wine in place of champagne. Still refreshing, still floral, and perfect for brunch or baby showers.
What It Tastes Like
Light, bubbly, and floral. The lavender adds a soft sweetness, while the lemon juice keeps it zippy and fresh. It finishes with the crisp sparkle of champagne. Altogether, it’s a cocktail that feels elegant but is easy to sip.
Food Pairings
This drink pairs beautifully with light, bright dishes:
– Goat cheese crostini: The tangy cheese balances the floral sweetness.
– Grilled shrimp or scallops: Their delicate flavor complements the citrus notes.
– Berry tart or lemon bars: A sweet ending that echoes the drink’s fruity, floral vibe.
FAQs
Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes! Use sparkling water instead of gin and non-alcoholic sparkling wine instead of champagne.
What kind of gin is best?
Look for a gin that’s not too juniper-heavy. Something with floral or citrus notes works well-like Hendrick’s or Bombay Sapphire.
Where can I get lavender syrup?
You’ll find it at specialty grocery stores, online, or you can make your own (see tips above).
Why use a champagne flute?
The narrow shape keeps the bubbles from escaping too quickly, so your drink stays fizzy longer.
Can I double or triple the recipe?
Absolutely. Just scale up the ingredients and shake in batches. Top each glass with champagne right before serving.
A Little Background
The original French 75 dates back to World War I and was named after a powerful French field gun. It was strong, fast, and elegant-just like the cocktail. The lavender version is a modern spin that adds a calming floral note, softening the drink without losing its sparkle.
Whether you’re hosting brunch, winding down on a warm evening, or just want something that feels a little fancy, the Lavender French 75 is a winner. It’s simple to make, easy to love, and always a hit.
