For such a light and refreshing drink to be named after heavy artillery used in World War I is incongruous or poetic either way you look at it. But the French 75 has survived the battles over the years and has reemerged ... more >For such a light and refreshing drink to be named after heavy artillery used in World War I is incongruous or poetic either way you look at it. But the French 75 has survived the battles over the years and has reemerged recently as one of the most popular drinks on bar menus throughout the U.S. Imagine a Tom Collins, topped with your favorite champagne, and you have the French 75. Keep bottles of fresh-squeezed lemon juice, simple syrup, and gin at your bar, make sure a bottle of champagne (or some Sofia cans) are chilling on ice, and keep the recipe visible. That way your guests can help themselves. All you have to do do is encourage vigorous shaking to get this delicate drink cold. (Just keep a measuring cup handy to keep out the guesswork.) Nothing could be easier than shrimp cocktail, and it’s so perfect paired with the French 75. The spiky tang of traditional cocktail sauce (ketchup and horseradish) brightens the lemon juice and whatever herbs and spices inform the gin, making your taste buds very happy. Make this your go-to hors d’oeuvre when you’re in a hurry or tired but still crave something satisfying. Frozen shrimp is great to keep on hand, but we recommend getting the raw shrimp with the shell on. The flavor is deeper, much more complex—with a hint of the sea. < less