How to Make 5 of the Most Popular, Classic and Easy to Make Champagne Cocktails

How to Make 5 of the Most Popular, Classic and Easy to Make Champagne Cocktails

Posted by M. Davis on Jan 22nd 2024

These are 5 of the Most Popular, Classic Champagne Cocktails that you can make at home or order from a bar or restaurant for Valentine's Day or anytime!

#1 Champagne Mimosa

Origin

The Champagne Mimosa is a classic cocktail with a simple yet elegant combination of champagne (or sparkling wine) and citrus juice, usually orange juice. The origins of the Champagne Mimosa are not precisely documented, but its creation is often attributed to a few different sources.

One popular story credits bartender Frank Meier with inventing the Mimosa at the Ritz Hotel in Paris in the early 1920s. Meier is said to have created the cocktail for an American customer who found the traditional Buck's Fizz (a similar drink with a higher champagne-to-juice ratio) too strong for breakfast.

Another story attributes the creation of the Mimosa to the Hotel Ritz in Paris during the 1920s but gives credit to bartender Louis Erard. According to this version, the cocktail was named after the mimosa plant, which has yellow flowers resembling the color of the drink.

The Champagne Mimosa gained popularity as a brunch cocktail and is now enjoyed worldwide. Its light and refreshing nature make it a favorite for morning celebrations, brunches, and special occasions. Over the years, variations of the Mimosa have emerged, incorporating different fruit juices and flavors to add variety to this classic sparkling cocktail.

While the classic Champagne Mimosa is made with Champagne and orange juice, you can get creative and try different variations. Here are a few alternative mimosa recipes to add variety to your brunch or celebration:

  1. Mango Mimosa:
    • Champagne or sparkling wine
    • Mango puree or fresh mango juice
    • Garnish with a slice of fresh mango
  2. Peach Bellini Mimosa:
    • Champagne or sparkling wine
    • Peach puree or peach nectar
    • Garnish with a slice of fresh peach
  3. Berry Bliss Mimosa:
    • Champagne or sparkling wine
    • Mixed berry puree (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
    • Garnish with a few fresh berries
  4. Pineapple Coconut Mimosa:
    • Champagne or sparkling wine
    • Pineapple juice
    • Coconut cream or coconut milk
    • Garnish with a pineapple wedge
  5. Raspberry Lemonade Mimosa:
    • Champagne or sparkling wine
    • Raspberry lemonade
    • Garnish with fresh raspberries and a lemon twist
  6. Grapefruit Rosemary Mimosa:
    • Champagne or sparkling wine
    • Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
    • Infuse with a sprig of fresh rosemary
    • Garnish with a grapefruit wedge and rosemary sprig
  7. Cranberry Orange Mimosa:
    • Champagne or sparkling wine
    • Cranberry juice
    • Freshly squeezed orange juice
    • Garnish with an orange twist
  8. Elderflower Mint Mimosa:
    • Champagne or sparkling wine
    • Elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain)
    • Fresh mint leaves
    • Garnish with a mint sprig

Feel free to experiment with different fruit juices, purees, and garnishes to create your own signature mimosa. Adjust the ratios according to your taste preferences, and have fun exploring new flavors!

Making a Champagne Mimosa is a simple and delightful process. Here's a basic recipe:

Ingredients:

  1. Champagne or sparkling wine
  2. Orange juice
  3. Optional: Triple sec or orange liqueur
  4. Fresh orange slices or twists for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Chill the Champagne: Make sure your Champagne or sparkling wine is well-chilled before you start.
  2. Choose a Glass: Use a flute or any other tall, narrow glass for serving.
  3. Pour Champagne: Fill the glass about halfway with Champagne or sparkling wine.
  4. Add Orange Juice: Pour orange juice into the glass, filling the remaining half. You can adjust the ratio of Champagne to orange juice based on your preference. Traditionally, it's about equal parts of each.
  5. Optional: Add Triple Sec: If you want to add a citrusy kick and a bit of sweetness, you can add a splash of triple sec or orange liqueur. Adjust the amount based on your taste.
  6. Gently Stir: Use a stirring stick or spoon to gently mix the ingredients. Be careful not to create too much fizz.
  7. Garnish: Garnish your mimosa with a fresh orange slice or twist on the rim of the glass.
  8. Serve: Your Champagne Mimosa is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it immediately while it's still bubbly and refreshing.

Remember, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences.



#2 Champagne Bellini 

Origin

The Champagne Bellini, like the Mimosa, is a classic cocktail with origins that can be traced to a specific time and place. The Bellini is believed to have been created in Venice, Italy, in the mid-20th century.

The cocktail is attributed to Giuseppe Cipriani, the founder of Harry's Bar in Venice. In the 1930s, Cipriani created the Bellini as a tribute to the Italian Renaissance painter Giovanni Bellini. The vibrant pink color of the cocktail reminded Cipriani of the pink hues found in Bellini's paintings.

The original Bellini recipe involves a simple combination of Prosecco, an Italian sparkling wine, and white peach puree. The peach puree gives the cocktail its distinctive flavor and a beautiful, peachy-pink color. The Bellini gained popularity not only for its delicious taste but also for its association with the art and culture of Italy.

Today, the Champagne Bellini is a celebrated cocktail served in bars and restaurants around the world. It is often enjoyed during brunches, special occasions, and as a refreshing drink for warm weather. While the classic Bellini uses Prosecco, variations may include different sparkling wines or additional ingredients for a unique twist.

How to make a Champagne Bellini

A Champagne Bellini is a delightful and refreshing cocktail that typically combines sparkling wine with peach puree. Here's a simple recipe for making a classic Champagne Bellini:

Ingredients:

  1. Champagne or Prosecco (well-chilled)
  2. Peach puree or peach nectar
  3. Simple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
  4. Fresh peach slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Peach Puree:
    • If using fresh peaches, peel and pit them. Puree the peaches in a blender until smooth. You can strain the puree if you prefer a smoother texture.
  2. Sweeten (Optional):
    • Taste the peach puree. If it's not sweet enough, you can add a bit of simple syrup to enhance the sweetness. Adjust to your liking.
  3. Chill Ingredients:
    • Make sure both the Champagne or Prosecco and the peach puree are well-chilled before preparing the Bellini.
  4. Assemble the Bellini:
    • In a champagne flute, add 1-2 tablespoons of peach puree at the bottom. The exact amount depends on your preference for peach flavor.
  5. Top with Champagne or Prosecco:
    • Slowly pour the well-chilled Champagne or Prosecco over the peach puree. Pour gently to avoid excessive fizz.
  6. Gently Stir (Optional):
    • If you'd like, you can use a stirring stick or spoon to gently mix the peach puree with the sparkling wine. Be cautious not to stir too vigorously to prevent losing the bubbles.
  7. Garnish (Optional):
    • Garnish the Bellini with a slice of fresh peach on the rim of the glass or floating on top.
  8. Serve Immediately:
    • The Champagne Bellini is best enjoyed immediately while it's still bubbly and refreshing.

Feel free to experiment with variations by using different fruit purees or nectars. You can also try adding a splash of liqueur like peach schnapps for an extra layer of flavor. Cheers!

#3 French 75 Champagne Cocktail

Origin

The French 75 is a classic cocktail with a history that dates back to World War I. The cocktail is named after the French 75mm field gun, a powerful artillery piece used by the French during the war. The exact origin of the French 75 is a matter of some debate, but it is widely believed to have been created in France and later gained popularity in the United States.

One story attributes the creation of the French 75 to Harry's New York Bar in Paris, a famous establishment that has been associated with the invention of several classic cocktails. The cocktail is said to have been created by Harry MacElhone, the owner of the bar, around 1915.

Another version of the story credits a different bartender at the New York Bar named Harry, specifically Harry's bartender Harry MacElhone's son, Andrew MacElhone. According to this version, the French 75 was first made in 1927, and the recipe was later published in Harry's ABC of Mixing Cocktails.

The classic French 75 recipe typically includes gin, champagne, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Over the years, variations have emerged, and some recipes may use cognac instead of gin.

The French 75 gained popularity in the United States, especially in New Orleans, where it became a staple cocktail. Today, the French 75 is recognized as a sophisticated and refreshing drink, often enjoyed at celebrations, brunches, and upscale cocktail bars around the world.

It's a refreshing and effervescent drink with a citrusy kick.

Here's how you can make a French 75:

Ingredients:

  1. 1 1/2 oz (45 ml) Gin
  2. 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) Fresh lemon juice
  3. 1/2 oz (15 ml) Simple syrup
  4. Ice cubes
  5. Champagne or sparkling wine
  6. Lemon twist, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
    • Measure out the gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.
  2. Combine Gin, Lemon Juice, and Simple Syrup:
    • In a cocktail shaker, add the gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.
  3. Add Ice:
    • Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
  4. Shake Well:
    • Shake the ingredients vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to chill the mixture.
  5. Strain into a Glass:
    • Strain the mixture from the shaker into a chilled champagne flute or a Collins glass.
  6. Top with Champagne:
    • Top the gin mixture with Champagne or sparkling wine. You can adjust the amount based on your preference, but traditionally, it's about 2-3 ounces.
  7. Garnish:
    • Garnish the French 75 with a lemon twist. To create a twist, use a peeler or a knife to cut a thin strip of lemon peel, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith.
  8. Serve Immediately:
    • The French 75 is best enjoyed right after preparation while it's still bubbly and refreshing.

Note: Some variations of the French 75 may use cognac instead of gin, but the gin version is the more classic and widely recognized version.

Enjoy!

# 4 Kir Royale Champagne Cocktail

Origin

The Kir Royale is a classic cocktail that originated in France also. The drink is a variation of the Kir cocktail, which itself has a history rooted in the Burgundy region of France. The Kir cocktail was named after Félix Kir, a French Catholic priest, resistance fighter, and mayor of the city of Dijon.

Félix Kir was known for serving a simple apéritif in the post-war years that combined white wine with a blackcurrant liqueur called Crème de Cassis. This cocktail became popular and eventually came to be known as "Kir." The Kir cocktail, traditionally made with white wine and Crème de Cassis, has since become a classic French apéritif.

The Kir Royale is essentially a fancier version of the Kir, and it substitutes the white wine with champagne or sparkling wine, giving it a more festive and upscale twist. The addition of champagne elevates the drink, making it suitable for special occasions and celebrations.

The name "Kir Royale" is a nod to the use of champagne, signifying a regal or royal touch to the classic Kir. The Kir Royale has gained popularity as a sophisticated and refreshing cocktail, enjoyed as both an apéritif and a celebratory drink. It has become a staple in cocktail menus around the world and is recognized for its simplicity and elegance.

A Kir Royale is a delicious and elegant cocktail that combines champagne with crème de cassis, a blackcurrant liqueur.

Here's a simple recipe to make a Kir Royale:

Ingredients:

  1. Champagne or sparkling wine (well-chilled)
  2. Crème de cassis

Instructions:

  1. Chill the Ingredients:
    • Make sure the champagne or sparkling wine is well-chilled before preparing the Kir Royale.
  2. Choose the Glass:
    • Typically, a flute or a wine glass is used for serving Kir Royale.
  3. Pour Crème de Cassis:
    • Add about 1/2 to 1 ounce (15-30 ml) of crème de cassis to the bottom of the glass. The exact amount depends on your preference for sweetness.
  4. Top with Champagne:
    • Pour the well-chilled champagne or sparkling wine over the crème de cassis. You can fill the glass almost to the top.
  5. Garnish (Optional):
    • Garnish the Kir Royale with a twist of lemon or a few fresh blackcurrants for a decorative touch. This step is optional but adds a bit of flair to the presentation.
  6. Serve Immediately:
    • The Kir Royale is best enjoyed immediately while the champagne is still bubbly.
  7. Stir (Optional):
    • If you'd like to mix the flavors more thoroughly, you can gently stir the ingredients with a stirring stick or spoon. Be careful not to stir too vigorously to preserve the bubbles.

The Kir Royale is a simple yet sophisticated cocktail that is perfect for celebratory occasions or a touch of elegance. Enjoy!

#5 Aperol Spitz Champagne Cocktail

Origin

The Aperol Spritz has its origins in Italy and has become a widely popular and iconic Italian aperitif. The drink's history can be traced back to the 1910s when the Aperol brand was first introduced by the Barbieri brothers in Padua, Italy. Aperol is an orange-flavored liqueur with a bright orange color and a distinctive bitter-sweet taste.

The Aperol Spritz as we know it today started to gain popularity in the 1950s and 1960s in the Veneto region of Italy, particularly in the city of Venice. It became a popular choice among locals and tourists alike, especially during the warm summer months.

The classic Aperol Spritz recipe includes:

  1. Aperol (typically 2 oz or 60 ml)
  2. Prosecco (3 oz or 90 ml)
  3. Soda water (1 oz or 30 ml)

The drink is usually served over ice in a wine glass and garnished with a slice of orange. The combination of Aperol's orange flavor, the effervescence of prosecco, and the crispness of soda water makes for a refreshing and vibrant cocktail.

The Aperol Spritz's rise to international fame can be attributed to its light and bubbly nature, making it a popular choice for social gatherings, especially during the summer. It has become a symbol of Italian aperitivo culture and is widely enjoyed in various parts of the world. The Aperol Spritz is not only a delicious cocktail but also a cultural phenomenon associated with leisurely moments and socializing.

How to make a Aperol Spitz Champagne Cocktail.

An Aperol Spritz is a popular and refreshing Italian cocktail that combines Aperol, prosecco, and soda water. It's known for its vibrant orange color and light, bubbly taste. Here's a simple recipe to make an Aperol Spritz:

Ingredients:

  1. 3 oz (90 ml) Prosecco (chilled)
  2. 2 oz (60 ml) Aperol
  3. 1 oz (30 ml) Soda water
  4. Orange slice or twist, for garnish
  5. Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
    • Measure out the prosecco, Aperol, and soda water.
  2. Fill a Wine Glass with Ice:
    • Place ice cubes in a wine glass. The Aperol Spritz is typically served over ice.
  3. Add Aperol:
    • Pour 2 ounces (60 ml) of Aperol over the ice in the glass.
  4. Add Prosecco:
    • Pour 3 ounces (90 ml) of chilled prosecco into the glass.
  5. Top with Soda Water:
    • Add 1 ounce (30 ml) of soda water to the glass. This gives the cocktail its effervescence.
  6. Gently Stir:
    • Optionally, you can give the ingredients a gentle stir to mix them. Be careful not to over-stir to maintain the bubbles.
  7. Garnish:
    • Garnish the Aperol Spritz with an orange slice or twist. This adds a citrusy aroma and complements the Aperol's orange flavor.
  8. Serve Immediately:
    • The Aperol Spritz is best enjoyed right away while it's still fizzy and refreshing.

The Aperol Spritz is a popular aperitif, perfect for warm weather or as a pre-dinner drink. It's known for its balance of bitterness, sweetness, and effervescence. Enjoy!

Elegant Champagne Flutes are recommended for the any of these champagne cocktail recipes and adding them to your shopping list is easy:

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