A Peach-Basil French 75 is the kind of cocktail that feels effortlessly elegant yet incredibly refreshing. It’s a fresh spin on the classic French 75, bringing together juicy peach, fragrant basil, and a splash of bubbly champagne. Perfect for summer evenings, celebrations, or just a little treat at the end of a long day. I’ve made this drink countless times, and one thing I’ve learned—using fresh, ripe peaches makes all the difference. Let’s get started!
Peach-Basil French 75
Ingredients
Makes 1 cocktail
You’ll need:
- 1.5 oz (45ml) gin
- 1 oz (30ml) peach puree (fresh is best, but canned works in a pinch)
- 0.75 oz (22ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup
- 2-3 fresh basil leaves
- Chilled champagne (to top)
- Ice
- Basil leaf or peach slice, for garnish
Equipment:
- Cocktail shaker
- Fine mesh strainer (optional, for a smoother drink)
- Champagne flute (or coupe glass)
How to Make a Peach-Basil French 75
- In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle 2-3 basil leaves with 0.5 oz (15ml) of simple syrup. This releases the basil’s flavor without making it bitter.
- Add 1.5 oz (45ml) gin, 1 oz (30ml) peach puree, and 0.75 oz (22ml) lemon juice.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds—until it’s well chilled.
- Strain into a champagne flute (use a fine mesh strainer if you prefer a smoother texture).
- Top with chilled champagne and garnish with a fresh basil leaf or a thin peach slice.
Sip and enjoy! The balance of sweet peach, herbal basil, and bright lemon makes this cocktail light, refreshing, and just a little bit fancy.
Tips for the Best Peach-Basil French 75
- Use fresh peaches if possible. If they’re out of season, frozen peaches blended into a puree work well.
- Chill your champagne ahead of time—warm champagne will flatten the drink.
- Adjust the sweetness to your taste. If your peaches are extra sweet, you might want to use less simple syrup.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can mix the peach puree, lemon juice, and simple syrup ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just shake with gin and ice, then top with champagne.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with light and fresh foods:
- Cheese boards – Try creamy brie or tangy goat cheese.
- Seafood – Grilled shrimp or seared scallops complement the fruity flavors.
- Salads – A fresh arugula or citrus salad makes a great match.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to mix things up? Try these twists:
- Swap the gin for vodka for a slightly smoother version.
- Use honey syrup instead of simple syrup for a more natural sweetness.
- Try apricot puree instead of peach for a different fruity spin.
Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace gin with soda water and swap champagne for sparkling water for a refreshing Peach-Basil Spritzer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of champagne should I use?
A dry (brut) champagne or prosecco works best to balance the sweetness of the peach.
Can I use canned peaches?
Yes! Just make sure they’re packed in juice, not syrup, to keep the drink from becoming too sweet.
What if I don’t have a shaker?
You can stir the ingredients in a glass with ice, then strain before topping with champagne.
Can I make a pitcher of this?
You can mix the peach puree, lemon juice, and simple syrup in advance. When serving, shake with gin, pour into glasses, and top each with champagne.
This has been my go-to cocktail for warm summer nights, and I hope you love it as much as I do. Cheers to a perfectly balanced, bubbly, and refreshing drink! 🍑🥂
