In the French 75 cocktail, which historic weapon gives the drink its name?

The French 75 cocktail is named after the French 75 mm field gun used during World War I.

The drink traditionally combines gin, lemon juice, sugar and Champagne. Its bright acidity and sparkling wine make it lighter in texture than many spirit-forward cocktails, although its gin base gives it substantial strength. It is commonly served in a Champagne flute or coupe.

The French 75 appeared in print in the early twentieth century and became associated with the 75 mm modèle 1897 field gun, a famous French artillery piece. The weapon was admired for its rapid-firing design and important role in World War I.

Some modern versions use Cognac instead of gin. That creates a recognized variation, but the best-known classic recipe uses gin. The cocktail’s military name is therefore a reference to the weapon’s caliber, not to a year or a military unit.