Mimosa

The Mimosa is the perfect brunch cocktail that still reigns supreme on brunch menus around the world today. This refreshing and bubbly drink is a staple at brunch tables, and for good reason. Made with equal parts orange juice and champagne, it’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with just the right amount of fizz.

While the classic mimosa recipe is simple – just orange juice and champagne – there are plenty of variations to suit your taste. Some people prefer to use sparkling wine instead of champagne, while others like to add a splash of peach puree to create a bellini-inspired drink. No matter how you make it, one thing is for sure: the mimosa is the perfect drink for entertaining, whether you’re hosting a fancy brunch or just enjoying a lazy Sunday morning at home.

History

The Mimosa is a popular cocktail that has been enjoyed for decades. The origin of the cocktail is somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been invented in the 1920s. Some say that the cocktail was invented in the French wine country, while others believe it was created in London. However, the most widely accepted story is that the Mimosa was invented at the Ritz Hotel in Paris by Frank Meier around 1925.

The Mimosa is named after the yellow-flowered mimosa plant, Acacia dealbata. The original recipe for the Mimosa was called a “Champagne Orange.” It was made with equal parts of champagne and orange juice. The cocktail became popular in the 1940s when it was served as a brunch drink in the United States.

Another popular cocktail that is similar to the Mimosa is the Buck’s Fizz. The Buck’s Fizz was invented in 1921 at Buck’s Club in London. The only difference between the two drinks is the ratio of champagne to orange juice. A traditional Mimosa is served with equal parts sparkling wine and orange juice, whereas a typical Buck’s Fizz has twice as much champagne as juice.

How to Make It

Selecting Your Champagne

The best type of alcohol to use in a mimosa is a dry champagne or prosecco. Look for a brut or extra brut champagne, which will have less residual sugar and a drier taste. This will balance out the sweetness of the orange juice and create a more balanced cocktail.

A mimosa is traditionally made with champagne and orange juice, while a prosecco mimosa is made with prosecco and orange juice. Prosecco is a sparkling wine that is made in Italy, and it is a popular alternative to champagne due to its lower price point.

To make a mimosa mocktail, simply substitute the champagne or prosecco with sparkling water or club soda. You can also use a non-alcoholic sparkling wine if you prefer. Mix the sparkling water or club soda with fresh orange juice and serve over ice for a refreshing mocktail.

Variations

If you’re looking to switch up your classic mimosa recipe, there are plenty of variations to try. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Pineapple Mimosa

Substitute pineapple juice for the orange juice in your mimosa recipe for a tropical twist. Garnish with a slice of pineapple for an extra touch.

Pomegranate Mimosa

Use pomegranate juice instead of orange juice for a tangy and sweet flavor. Add a few pomegranate seeds to your champagne flute for a pop of color.

Megmosa

Swap out the orange juice for grapefruit juice to add a little bitterness to your mimosa. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit for a beautiful presentation.

Lemosa

Use lemonade instead of orange juice for a refreshing and tart mimosa. Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme for an herbal twist.

Watermelon Mimosa

Mix watermelon juice with champagne or sparkling wine for a light and fruity beverage. Garnish with a slice of watermelon or a sprig of mint for a refreshing touch.

Triple Sec Mimosa

Add a splash of triple sec or orange liqueur to your classic mimosa recipe for a boozy twist. This is perfect for those who prefer a stronger cocktail.

Sparkling Grape Juice Mimosa

For a non-alcoholic version, mix sparkling grape juice with orange juice for a delicious and bubbly beverage. Perfect for brunches with kids or anyone who doesn’t drink alcohol.