We can’t talk about the French 95 without first talking about its older sister, the French 75. Why, we hear you ask? Because the French 95 owes its life to the French 75. In fact, they have almost exactly the same ingredients, with the 95 subbing out the original gin for bourbon.
As with so many classic cocktails, the origin story for the French 75 is hotly contested, but let’s focus on the most popular theory. This potent cocktail premiered in France in the early 1900s – we’re talking World War I. This makes sense since the cocktail is named after a French gun – a not-so-subtle nod to the strength of the drink, we think.
Made at the famous Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, the Champagne cocktail was a hit. Some say Cognac was the original base spirit with many old-fashioned bars in New Orleans still serving it like that, but the cocktail we know and love today is made with gin.
Fast-forward a few decades later, to around 1977, and you get the “official” conception of the French 75’s offspin, the French 95. The most common recipe is an adaptation of Stanley. M Jones’ recipe in his book Jones Complete Bar Guide. As mention, it simply switches out the gin for American whiskey or bourbon.
So, if you’re feeling a bit adventurous and aren’t against giving up a glass of Champagne or your favourite sparkling to make the cocktail, give this French 95 a go.
