The French 125 is the French 75 made with Cognac. Brandy in place of gin gives a richer, fruitier, rounder drink — and, given that some historians believe the 75 was originally a Cognac drink, the 125 has a fair claim to being the elder of the two.
Perhaps not a variation at all, but the original wearing a later name.
Which Came First
The French 75's early history is murky. Some of its earliest printed recipes call for Cognac, not gin, and a number of historians argue the gin version is the later one. By that reading the French 125 is not a riff but a restoration.
A New Orleans Favourite
Whatever its origins, the Cognac version found a lasting home in New Orleans, where brandy has deep roots and the French 125 is poured as a matter of local preference. The number simply continues the family's artillery theme.
Cognac to Reach For
A decent VS or VSOP Cognac is plenty; this is not the place for a rare bottle. What matters is fruit and roundness — qualities that survive the lemon, the sugar, and the rush of Champagne.
The French 75 Family
The classic — gin, lemon, sugar, and Champagne, a sour with a sparkling spine.
- 1 ozGin
- 1/2 ozLemon juice
- TopChampagne
The French 75 made with vodka — cleaner and crisper, citrus and bubbles in front.
- 1 ozVodka
- 1/2 ozLemon juice
- TopChampagne
The French 75 on bourbon — citrus and Champagne over a warm whiskey base.
- 1 ozBourbon
- 1/2 ozLemon juice
- TopChampagne