Named for a WWI-era piece of French artillery (The 75-millimeter M1897, a light, potent little gun with a vicious rate of fire) and a favorite of the lost generation. The effervescent French 7 is a combination of gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and Champagne—certainly packs a punch. The simplicity of the recipe lends itself well to mixing in large batches, meaning cocktail party perfection. SERVES 6–8 INGREDIENTS FOR THE SIMPLE SYRUP: 1 cup sugar 1 cup hot water FOR THE COCKTAIL: 9 oz Tanqueray Gin 5 oz Lemon Juice 5 oz Simple Syrup 1 375 ml bottle brut Champagne Lemon twists, for garnish INSTRUCTIONS 1. Make the simple syrup: Combine sugar with hot water and stir until sugar is dissolved. The syrup will keep, covered and refrigerated, for up to two weeks. 2. Make the cocktail: Add the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a pitcher filled with ice. Stir in the Champagne (we reccomend Laurent Perrier Brut Champagne). Strain into Champagne coupes and garnish each with a lemon twist.
