As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of serving and enjoying a variety of cocktails over the years. One classic cocktail that often comes to mind is the French 75. Traditionally, the French 75 was served in a long drink format, poured over ice in a Collins glass. However, in more recent times, the modern trend has shifted towards serving the French 75 in a flute glass.
The shift from the Collins glass to the flute glass as the usual serve for the French 75 can be attributed to the evolving preferences of cocktail enthusiasts and the desire for a more elegant presentation. The flute glass, with its long, slender shape, allows the cocktail to showcase its effervescence and visually appeals to the eye.
I remember an occasion where I was attending a cocktail event and the French 75 was being served in a flute glass. The visual impact was stunning, with the bubbles gracefully dancing up the glass, creating an enticing and celebratory atmosphere. The flute glass also enhances the aromatic experience, as the narrow opening concentrates the aromas and allows for a more pronounced olfactory experience.
Furthermore, the flute glass helps to maintain the carbonation of the cocktail for a longer period of time. The narrow shape minimizes the surface area exposed to the air, reducing the chances of the bubbles dissipating quickly. This ensures that with each sip, the French 75 remains lively and effervescent, preserving its refreshing qualities.
Moreover, serving the French 75 in a flute glass adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to the overall drinking experience. The slender stem and delicate design of the flute glass exude a sense of refinement and class. Holding the glass by the stem allows for a more comfortable grip, preventing the warmth of the hand from affecting the temperature of the cocktail. This is particularly important for drinks that are best enjoyed when chilled.
In contrast, the Collins glass, which was the traditional vessel for the French 75, has a wider mouth and a taller height. This format was popular in the past and is still used for other long drinks. However, the Collins glass does not highlight the cocktail's carbonation or showcase its visual appeal in the same way as the flute glass. Its larger size also means that the drink may lose its effervescence more quickly.
While the French 75 was historically served in a Collins glass, the modern trend has shifted towards presenting this classic cocktail in a flute glass. The flute glass enhances the visual appeal, aroma, and overall drinking experience of the French 75. Its slender shape maintains the cocktail's carbonation and adds an element of sophistication to the presentation. So, if you have the opportunity to enjoy a French 75, I would highly recommend savoring it in a flute glass for the ultimate sensory experience.