For the party animals, French 75 is a known name. It's basically a cocktail prepared from gin, champagne, lemon juice, and sugar. If Vodka is used instead of gin, it may be referred to as a French 76. French 75 is a refreshing drink which makes you feel as glamorous as a character in Casablanca. Though it is generally made with gin and champagne, other versions can be made with cognac or rose champagne.

The history, is as interesting as the drink. It was discovered by French air force pilot Raoul Lufbery who was part of Escadrille Américaine air fighting unit. Legend has it that he liked champagne, but wanted something with more of a kick to it, so he mixed it with cognac which was readily available. The combination was said to have such a kick that it felt like being shelled with the powerful French 75mm howitzer artillery piece, also called a "75 Cocktail", or "Soixante Quinze" in French. The French 75 was popularized in America at the Stork Club.

The drink tastes best when served very cold,

Ingredients Required for Making French 75, for a Single Person

• 1 lemon • 3 tablespoons (1 1/2 ounces) gin • 1 1/2 tablespoons (3/4 ounce) fresh lemon juice • 1 tablespoon (1/2 ounce) simple syrup • 1 cup ice cubes • 1/4 cup (2 ounces) dry sparkling wine, such as brut Champagne, chilled

How to Prepare Mix the gin, sugar, and lemon juice in a shaker half-filled with ice cubes. Shake well. Pour into a collins glass. Top with the champagne. Stir well and garnish with the orange slice and the cherry.

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