Bastille Day, also known as French National Day, is a celebration of the French Revolution and the storming of the Bastille prison on July 14, 1789. It is a day filled with joy, patriotism, and festivities in France. And what better way to celebrate this important day than with a French cocktail that captures the essence of French culture and tradition?
One classic French cocktail that is perfect for Bastille Day is the French 75. This refreshing and elegant drink was first created in 1915 at the New York Bar in Paris (now known as Harry's New York Bar). It is named after the French 75mm field gun, a powerful artillery piece used during World War I.
The French 75 is made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne. It is typically served in a champagne flute, which adds a touch of sophistication to the drink. The combination of gin, citrus, and bubbles makes it a perfect choice for a summer celebration like Bastille Day.
To make a French 75, start by chilling your champagne flute in the freezer for a few minutes. This will ensure that your cocktail stays cold and refreshing. Next, add 2 ounces of gin, 1 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and half an ounce of simple syrup to a shaker filled with ice. Shake well to combine the ingredients and strain into the chilled flute. Top it off with 2-3 ounces of chilled champagne and garnish with a lemon twist.
The French 75 is not only delicious but also quite versatile. You can experiment with different types of gin to find your favorite flavor profile. Some gins have more floral notes, while others are more citrus-forward or herbaceous. You can also adjust the sweetness level by adding more or less simple syrup, depending on your preference.
If you're looking for another French cocktail option, the Kir Royale is a classic choice. This cocktail is made with crème de cassis (a blackcurrant liqueur) and champagne. It is simple yet elegant, and the deep red color of the crème de cassis adds a festive touch to the drink.
To make a Kir Royale, start by chilling a champagne flute in the freezer. Once chilled, pour about half an ounce of crème de cassis into the flute. Then, slowly pour about 4-5 ounces of chilled champagne over the crème de cassis. The two ingredients will mix together naturally, creating a beautiful layered effect. You can garnish the drink with a fresh blackberry or a lemon twist.
The Kir Royale is a delightful aperitif that is perfect for toasting and celebrating. It is light, fruity, and effervescent, making it a delightful choice for Bastille Day festivities.
When it comes to French cocktails for Bastille Day, the French 75 and the Kir Royale are two fantastic options. Both drinks capture the elegance and sophistication of French culture, and they are sure to impress your guests. So raise a glass and toast to France's rich history and vibrant spirit on this special day!