One thing you should know about me is that I love popping bubbles.
I don’t need a special occasion to open a bottle of champagne. There’s always a reason to celebrate!
The fizzy bubbles bring me so much joy, and whether it’s champagne, prosecco, or sparkling wine, I’m always saying yes to a glass.
I also love hosting brunches and creating the perfect mimosa bar for the occasion is essential. Seriously though, who doesn’t love a mimosa?
Today, I’m excited to share my favorite tips, tricks, and recipes for this classic bubbly cocktail.
Whether it’s Mother’s Day, a wedding shower, or just a lazy Sunday brunch, mimosas are a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
Let’s dive into how to make the perfect mimosa, choose the best champagne or sparkling wine, and add a few fun twists along the way.
What is a Mimosa?
For me, a mimosa is the ultimate brunch cocktail. It’s made with equal parts champagne (or sparkling wine) and orange juice, served in a champagne flute. It’s simple, refreshing, and perfect for any celebratory occasion.
Classic Mimosa Recipe
Here’s my go-to recipe for a classic mimosa:
- Ingredients:
- 3 ounces of orange juice (fresh squeezed is nice to have, but I also like Natalie’s orange juice)
- 3 ounces of champagne or sparkling wine
- Instructions:
- Pour the orange juice into a champagne flute.
- Slowly add the champagne, letting it mix naturally with the juice.
- Garnish with an orange slice if you want to make it look extra fancy.
Choosing the Best Champagne and Sparkling Wines for Mimosas
When it comes to making mimosas, the kind of champagne or sparkling wine you use can make a big difference. Here are some of my top choices:
Best Champagne
- Veuve Clicquot Brut: This is a classic choice with fine bubbles and a balanced flavor. It’s on the expensive side, but perfect for special occasions.
- Moët & Chandon Imperial Brut: Known for its quality and consistency, this is a good champagne for a classic mimosa recipe.
Best Sparkling Wine
- Italian Prosecco: Prosecco is an affordable option with a slightly sweeter taste. Brands like La Marca Prosecco are excellent options.
- Spanish Cava: Another budget-friendly choice, Cava offers a dry, crisp taste that pairs well with the sweetness of the juice.
- Sparkling Rosé: For a twist on the traditional mimosa, try using a sparkling rosé. It adds a lovely color and a hint of berry flavor.
Budget-Friendly Bottles
- Korbel Brut: An affordable option that still offers good quality.
- Freixenet Cordon Negro Brut: A great choice for those looking for a dry, crisp sparkling wine without a hefty price tag.
Sweet and Dry Options
- Brut Champagne: This is a dry champagne with minimal residual sugar, making it a great choice for those who prefer a less sweet mimosa.
- Demi-Sec: A sweeter champagne that pairs well with tart juices like blood orange.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Mimosa
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure you make the perfect mimosa every time:
- Use Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice: The freshness of the juice makes a big difference. Try using fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
- Chill Your Ingredients: Ensure both the champagne and orange juice are well-chilled before mixing to keep your mimosa refreshingly cool.
- Pour the Champagne First: This helps to control the foam and mix the drink evenly.
- Add a Splash of Your Favorite Fruit Juice: Mix it up with other juices like cranberry, pineapple, or mango for unique flavors.
- Experiment with Mix-Ins: Add a splash of orange liqueur like Grand Marnier for an extra kick.
Storing Leftover Champagne
If you have leftover champagne, here are a few tips to keep it fresh:
- Use a Champagne Stopper: This will help keep the bubbles in and prevent the champagne from going flat.
- Store in the Fridge: Keep the bottle upright in the refrigerator.
- Consume Quickly: Ideally, finish the champagne within a day or two for the best taste.
Fun Facts About Champagne and Sparkling Wine
Here are some interesting tidbits about champagne and sparkling wine that you can share at your next brunch:
- True Champagne: To be called champagne, it must come from the Champagne region of France and be made using the traditional méthode champenoise.
- Difference Between Champagne and Sparkling Wine: All champagne is sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wine is champagne. Sparkling wine can come from various regions and be made using different methods.
- Secondary Fermentation: Champagne gets its bubbles from a secondary fermentation process in the bottle.
Snacks to Pair with Mimosas
A good mimosa deserves some delicious snacks to go along with it. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Eggs Benedict: A classic brunch dish that pairs perfectly with the light, bubbly nature of mimosas.
- Fresh Fruits: Strawberries, blueberries, and fresh orange slices are great options.
- Cheese and Charcuterie: A variety of cheeses and cured meats can complement the flavors of your mimosas.
- Pancakes and Waffles: These breakfast staples are always a hit and complement the sweetness of the juice.
When Are Mimosas Best?
Mimosas are versatile and can be enjoyed on many occasions:
- Brunch: Of course, they are a classic brunch cocktail, perfect for any kind of brunch gathering.
- Celebratory Occasions: They’re great for Mother’s Day, baby showers, wedding showers, and more.
- Everyday Moments: Sometimes, there’s no better way to start a lazy weekend than with a mimosa and a good breakfast.
Types of Orange Juice for Mimosas
Not all orange juice is created equal. Here are some options to consider:
- Fresh Squeezed: The best choice for its vibrant flavor and freshness.
- Store-Bought: A convenient option; just make sure it’s high quality and not from concentrate.
- Blood Orange Juice: Adds a unique color and tangy flavor for a different twist.
- Tropical Mixes: Orange juice blended with pineapple or mango can add a fun twist to your mimosa.
Creating the perfect mimosa is all about balance and quality ingredients. Whether you opt for a high-end champagne or a budget-friendly sparkling wine, the key is to have fun and enjoy the process.
So next time you’re planning a boozy brunch or a celebratory brunch party, remember these tips and tricks to make your mimosas the highlight of the event. Cheers to delicious mimosas and fun times!
Classic Mimosa Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 ounces of orange juice
- 3 ounces of champagne or sparkling wine
Instructions
- Pour the orange juice into a champagne flute.
- Slowly add the champagne, letting it mix naturally with the juice.
- Garnish with an orange slice if you want to make it look extra fancy.