James MacWilliams’s Signature Drink: The French 75

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Canlis bar manager James MacWilliams elevates the humble (and often mediocre) French 75. Photo: Lucas Anderson

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The drink is prepared tableside. Photo: Lucas Anderson

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Key ingredient no. 1: Grand Marnier 150, made with cognac no less than 25 years old.Photo: Lucas Anderson

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Even the process of juicing a lemon is a classy affair at Canlis. Photo: Lucas Anderson

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Combine gin, Grand Marnier, and lemon over ice. Photo: Lucas Anderson

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If MacWilliams were making this drink during business hours, he probably wouldn’t be wearing a white T-shirt with a mustache on it. Photo: Lucas Anderson

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The drink is topped off with Charles Heidsieck Champagne. Photo: Lucas Anderson

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And finally the lemon twist garnish, all done tableside. Photo: Lucas Anderson

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The finished product comes with the remaining bottle of Champagne. Photo: Lucas Anderson

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