The Sicilian 75 for Vincenzo Nibali

Thirsty Readers, tonight I have for you a boozy Champagne cocktail of sorts. I was inspired by my lately hero, Vincenzo Nibali, winner of this year's Tour de France, which finished yesterday in Paris.  Isn't he just darling?

Vincenzo Nibali upon winning the Tour de France yesterday, drinking Champagne but secretly wishing he had a Sicilian 75 in his hand. 

And, here is an even more exciting photo of Mr. Nibali, riding in the peloton.  How they don't constantly crash into each other is a mystery to this humble cyclist.

Vincenzo! I love you!

But, back to the cocktail, which is why we are gathered here, no? The Sicilian 75 is a variation of an old cocktail called the French 75. The French 75 is made from gin, Champagne, lemon juice and sugar. It was created in 1915 at the New York Bar in Paris. The drink was said to have a kick that compared to one created by a French 75mm field gun. The concoction went on to be popularized by the Stork Club in New York and the recipe for it was put into print in The Savoy Cocktail Book in 1930.  There are a few variations on this drink, and the one I have chosen to feature this evening was created by Louro in Manhattan.  Like the French 75, The Sicilian 75 is deceptively light tasting drink with a kick.

This libation is lovely to behold and quite nice to drink. While it won't be one of my evening go-to cocktails, it will most definitely be on my list of drinks to serve the next time I host a groovy relaxed brunch.

Here is the beautiful beverage, garnished and ready to go.

So, if you are reading this Vincenzo Nibali - and of course you are - Congratulations on your triumph!  We lift our glasses to your achievement.

Without further delay, here is the recipe for The Sicilian 75

The Sicilian 75 for Vincenzo Nibali

1 oz. fresh blood orange juice, plus a slice for garnish

1 oz. gin

1/2 oz. simple syrup

1/4 oz. Campari

2 oz. dry Champagne 

Combine juice, gin, syrup and Campari in an ice-filled shaker. Shake and strain into a flute. Top with the Champagne. Garnish with the orange slice.  Enjoy.

Cheers!