According to Ted Haigh (aka Dr. Cocktail), the French 75 is one of two cocktails named after the French 75-mm field gun, which was commonly used in World War I. "One barman in 1947," reports Haigh, "called it a Tom Collins with champagne instead of club soda. Vive la difference!"

The combination of gin, lemon juice, and Champagne brings out the best in each: it's tart, refreshing, herbal, and effervescent.

Ingredients:
45mL ImaGINation X HBWC Summer Cup Gin
30mL freshly squeezed lemon juice
30mL Simple Syrup
Champagne or sparkling wine

Directions:
Fill cocktail shaker with ice. Shake gin, lemon juice, and sugar in a cocktail shaker until well chilled (about 15 seconds) Strain into a champagne flute.
Top with Champagne.
Stir gently, garnish with a long, thin lemon spiral.