Obviously, I think my birthday is a cause for celebration, and with celebration comes champagne! When choosing a signature drink for my bash, I wanted something that would subtly echo the floral motif of my invitations without being too juvenile. A playful twist on a classic, grownup cocktail seems fitting for someone turning 27.

I've settled on this variation on the French 75 cocktail; it features blood oranges so it has a slightly pink, but not too pink, hue. Better yet, it will please both cocktail connoisseurs and casual drinkers, and it can be made in large batches. To get the recipe, read more.

Blood Orange French 75
Bon Appetit
Blood Orange French 75

Ingredients

3 blood oranges (about 1 pound)
1 1/2 cups gin
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon angostura bitters
2 750-ml bottles chilled Champagne

Directions
Serves 12.

  1. Cut 1 orange in half through stem. Cut each half crosswise into 6 slices; reserve for garnish.
  2. Using small knife, cut peel and white pith from remaining 2 oranges; chop oranges.
  3. Transfer chopped oranges with juices to bowl; mash with potato masher or wooden spoon. Stir in gin, sugar, and bitters.
  4. Strain into 2-cup measuring cup, pressing on solids to release liquid. Chill 4 hours.
  5. Pour scant 2 tablespoons gin mixture into each of 12 glasses; fill with Champagne and garnish with orange.

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