Popping a bottle of Champagne on New Year’s Eve & enjoying a glass is no odd occurrence, but few will take the extra step and use the wine as the foundation of this delectable cocktail.

According to Raines Law Room bartender Meaghan Dorman, French 75s are bright, crisp, delicious, and ideal for New Year’s Eve. Being a mix of wine and spirits, you never feel like you’re overdoing it as you would on strong spirit-heavy cocktails.

Along with fellow bartender Lauren Davis, they refer to this as the Champagne Maintain tactic, which grants you the ability to last all night and still stay a lady!

Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 ounce gin or Cognac
• ½ ounce fresh lemon juice
• 2 ounces Champagne
• Lemon twist

Preparation

1. Making the simple syrup: In a saucepan add 1 cup of water and the sugar, and over a low heat, warm until dissolved. Allow to cool to room temp before using. You will most likely not use all of the syrup, so feel free to refrigerate the excess.
2. Shake gin (or Cognac), lemon juice and ½ ounce of your syrup in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
3. Strain into a chilled cocktail coupe or flute and top with Champagne. Finally, use a lemon twist as garnish and enjoy!