The bright citrusy flavors in this variation on the classic French 75 pop when showcased alongside a brilliant, clean cider. Redbyrd Orchard’s Workman Dry, made in Burdett, New York, serves as a brisk, bracing canvas for this cocktail; it also adds subtle tropical fruit notes. The original drink was named for a World War I howitzer gun — indicating that this drink packs a punch.
Cider 75
Makes 1 cocktail
1½ ounces gin
1 ounce lemon juice
¾ ounce simple syrup*
1 dash orange bitters
3-4 ounces Workman Dry cider, chilled
Garnish: lemon peel
Combine the first four ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well, and strain into a flute, coupe or wine glass. Top with the cider and garnish with the lemon peel.
*To make simple syrup, combine 1 cup of sugar with 1 cup of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then remove from the heat and allow to cool. Makes about 1½ cups.
