French 75

My favorite spirit is gin.  That is one reason I love a French 75.  The other is that it enhances the Champagne without overpowering it.  This is a perfect cocktail for an aperitivo or to toast in the New Year.  Cheers!

3/4 oz. fresh lemon juice
3/4 oz. simple syrup
1-1/2 oz. gin
2 dashes Angostura bitters - optional
2 oz. Champagne

In a cocktail shaker, combine the lemon juice, simple syrup, gin, and bitters.  Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.  Pour into a flute glass and top with Champagne. I like to pour equal parts gin mixture and Champagne.

Simple syrup
In a saucepan, combine equal parts sugar and water.  Bring to a boil, turn off the heat, and let cool.  Store in refrigerator.