A mimosa is a refreshing cocktail made with equal parts champagne and chilled citrus juice, typically orange juice, served in a champagne flute.
A mimosa is a classic brunch cocktail made with just two ingredients: sparkling wine and orange juice. This refreshing drink is perfect for celebrations, holidays, or lazy weekend mornings. With its bright citrus flavor and bubbly texture, it’s no wonder mimosas have become a staple at brunch tables worldwide.
What Exactly Is a Mimosa?
The mimosa is a simple yet elegant cocktail consisting of equal parts chilled sparkling wine and orange juice. Named after the bright yellow mimosa flower, this drink originated in the 1920s. While its exact origins are debated, it gained popularity in the United States during the 1960s and remains a brunch favorite today.
Mimosa vs. Buck’s Fizz
Many confuse mimosas with Buck’s Fizz, a similar cocktail. The key differences:
| Feature | Mimosa | Buck’s Fizz |
|---|---|---|
| Ratio | Equal parts wine and juice | 2:1 wine to juice |
| Serving | Often with ice | No ice |
| Glassware | Champagne flute | Wider glass |
How to Make the Perfect Mimosa
Follow these steps for foolproof mimosas every time:
Ingredients
- 1 bottle (750ml) dry sparkling wine (chilled)
- 3 cups fresh orange juice (chilled, pulp-free)
Equipment
You’ll need quality glassware to serve your mimosas properly. Champagne flutes are ideal as they preserve carbonation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Chill all ingredients overnight
- Tilt flute at 45° angle
- Pour sparkling wine halfway
- Top with orange juice
- Gently stir if needed
Expert Tips for Better Mimosas
Choosing the Right Sparkling Wine
Opt for dry varieties labeled “brut.” Good options include:
- Champagne (French)
- Prosecco (Italian)
- Cava (Spanish)
- American sparkling wine
Selecting Orange Juice
Fresh-squeezed is best, but store-bought works too. For the perfect texture, consider using a quality citrus juicer if making your own.
Creative Mimosa Variations
While classic mimosas are delicious, try these twists:
Fruit Variations
- Blood Orange Mimosa: Use blood orange juice
- Pomegranate Mimosa: Substitute pomegranate juice
- Grapefruit Mimosa: Replace half the OJ with grapefruit juice
Liqueur-Enhanced Versions
- Grand Mimosa: Add ½ oz Grand Marnier per glass
- French Mimosa: Include ½ oz Chambord
- Tropical Mimosa: Add ½ oz coconut rum
Seasonal Specialties
- Winter: Apple cider and cinnamon
- Spring: Strawberry puree base
- Summer: Peach nectar and mint
- Fall: Pumpkin spice syrup
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Brunch Pairings
Mimosas complement many brunch dishes:
- Eggs Benedict
- French toast
- Fresh fruit salad
- Smoked salmon
Presentation Ideas
Elevate your mimosas with:
- Sugar rimmed glasses
- Edible flowers
- Citrus twists
- Frozen fruit “ice cubes”
Mimosa FAQs
Can I make mimosas in advance?
It’s best to mix just before serving to maintain carbonation. However, you can pre-chill ingredients and set up a mimosa bar for guests to assemble their own.
What’s the alcohol content?
A standard mimosa contains about 6-8% alcohol by volume, depending on the wine used.
Are there non-alcoholic versions?
Yes! Substitute sparkling wine with:
- Sparkling cider
- Non-alcoholic sparkling wine
- Club soda with a splash of juice
Mimosa History and Culture
The mimosa has an interesting history dating back to 1925 at the Ritz Hotel in Paris. It gained popularity in the U.S. as a brunch staple in the 1960s. Today, May 16 is unofficially celebrated as National Mimosa Day in America.
For more cocktail inspiration, check out our guide to the best blenders for frozen drinks to expand your mixology skills.
