Lavender French 75 – A Floral Champagne Cocktail

The French 75 is one of the most celebrated cocktails in history — a sparkling, citrusy blend of gin, lemon, and champagne that dates back to World War I Paris. Named after the powerful French 75mm field gun, it's known for its kick. Add lavender simple syrup and it transforms into something ethereal: effervescent, floral, and utterly elegant. This is the cocktail for celebrations, brunches, and any moment that deserves a little sparkle.

Ingredients

• 1 oz gin
• ½ oz fresh lemon juice
• ½ oz lavender simple syrup (recipe below)
• 3 oz dry champagne or sparkling wine, chilled
• Ice
• Lemon twist or fresh lavender sprig, for garnish

For the Lavender Simple Syrup

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender buds

Make the Lavender Simple Syrup

1. Combine water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the dried lavender buds and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 20 minutes.
4. Strain through a fine mesh sieve, discarding the lavender buds.
5. Cool completely before using. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Directions

1. Add gin, fresh lemon juice, and lavender simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until well chilled.
3. Strain into a chilled champagne flute.
4. Top with chilled champagne or sparkling wine — pour slowly to preserve the bubbles.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or a fresh lavender sprig.
6. Raise a glass and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• Sparkling wine swap: Prosecco or Cava work beautifully here and are more budget-friendly than champagne — Prosecco's slight sweetness pairs especially well with the lavender.
• Vodka variation: Prefer a cleaner flavor? Substitute vodka for gin to let the lavender and lemon shine front and center.
• Make it a mocktail: Replace the gin with elderflower tonic and the champagne with sparkling water for a stunning alcohol-free version.
• Adjust the floral intensity: Steep the lavender for less time (10 minutes) for a subtler note, or longer (30 minutes) for a more pronounced floral flavor.
• Use culinary lavender: Always use food-grade culinary lavender buds for the best flavor and safety. Our Culinary Lavender – Royal Velvet Buds are perfect for this recipe.

Why Lavender?

Lavender's soft floral character is a natural match for the bright acidity of lemon and the yeasty effervescence of champagne. Together, they create a layered, sophisticated flavor that feels both classic and unexpected. It's the kind of cocktail that makes a moment feel special — whether you're toasting a milestone or simply treating yourself on a Tuesday.

Ready to make your own lavender simple syrup? Pick up a bag of our Culinary Lavender – Royal Velvet Buds — grown and harvested for culinary use, with a clean, true lavender flavor that shines in cocktails, baked goods, and beyond.