Classic Mimosas - Champagne or Sparkling Wine Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade Classic Mimosa with this easy cocktail recipe. Perfect balance of fresh orange juice and chilled champagne creates an elegant brunch favorite. This simple, refreshing drink elevates any gathering with bright citrus notes and festive bubbles.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

2 mins

Cook Time:

Serves:

4 cocktails

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">750ml chilled Champagne or sparkling wine (Prosecco or Cava work well)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">500ml freshly squeezed orange juice, chilled</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Orange slices or twists for garnish (optional)</li> </ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 cocktail

🔥 Calories: 120 calories

🥑 Fat: 0 g

🧈 Saturated Fat: 0 g

🍞 Carbohydrates: 12 g

🍭 Sugar: 9 g

🍗 Protein: 0 g

🫀 Cholesterol: 0 mg

🧂 Sodium: 2 mg

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Champagne flutes</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Champagne stopper (for leftovers)</li> </ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Chill all ingredients thoroughly before preparation. Both the champagne and orange juice should be refrigerated for at least 3 hours. Cold ingredients maintain carbonation better and create a more refreshing final drink. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Pour the chilled orange juice into each champagne flute, filling approximately 1/3 of the glass (about 60ml per glass). For a stronger cocktail, use less juice; for a lighter version, fill up to halfway. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Slowly tilt the glass and pour the champagne or sparkling wine down the inside edge to preserve bubbles. Fill each glass to about 1cm from the rim (approximately 90ml per glass). Pouring this way prevents excessive foaming and maintains the wine's effervescence. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Allow the cocktail to settle for a moment as the bubbles naturally mix the ingredients. No stirring is needed, as this would reduce carbonation. You'll notice a beautiful gradient effect forming in the glass. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> If desired, garnish each glass with a slice of orange on the rim or a delicate twist of orange peel expressed over the surface to release essential oils. This adds aromatic complexity to the drink. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Serve immediately while the cocktail is cold and the carbonation is at its peak. For large gatherings, prepare each drink individually rather than premixing to maintain the freshness and bubbles. </li> </ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Classic Mimosas?

Classic Mimosas require just three ingredients: chilled champagne or sparkling wine (Prosecco and Cava are good alternatives), freshly squeezed orange juice, and optional orange slices or twists for garnish. The simplicity is what makes this cocktail so elegant.

How to make Classic Mimosas at home?

Learn how to make Classic Mimosas by first thoroughly chilling both your champagne and orange juice. Pour orange juice into a flute (filling about 1/3), then slowly add champagne down the side of the glass to preserve bubbles. No stirring needed – the carbonation naturally mixes the ingredients. Garnish with an orange slice or twist if desired.

What's the best champagne or sparkling wine to use for mimosas?

For mimosas, choose a dry (Brut) sparkling wine rather than expensive champagne. Prosecco offers good value with light, fruity notes that complement orange juice, while Spanish Cava provides crisp acidity. Avoid sweet varieties as the orange juice already adds sweetness to the cocktail.

What's the perfect ratio for a balanced mimosa?

The classic ratio is 1:1 (equal parts sparkling wine and orange juice), but many prefer 2:1 (two parts champagne to one part juice) for a more pronounced wine flavour. For a stronger cocktail, use 3:1, while a 1:2 ratio creates a more juice-forward, gentler brunch beverage.

Can I prepare a mimosa pitcher for a large gathering?

Ideally, mimosas should be mixed individually to maintain carbonation. However, if serving a crowd, you can prepare a pitcher just before serving. Chill all ingredients thoroughly, add juice first, then gently pour in the sparkling wine. Don't stir, and serve immediately.

Want to try something else in ...