There’s something effortlessly joyful about a French Mimosa. It’s bright, bubbly, and easy to love—just like a good brunch with friends. This classic cocktail brings together fresh orange juice and champagne in the simplest, most refreshing way. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to bring a little sparkle to the table. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just want to treat yourself, this one’s a winner.
French Mimosa
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 drink (easily scaled up)
Equipment: Champagne flute or wine glass
Ingredients
– 90 ml (3 oz) fresh orange juice
– 90 ml (3 oz) chilled champagne (or dry sparkling wine)
– Orange slice or twist, for garnish
Method
- Chill your ingredients. Pop the champagne and orange juice in the fridge ahead of time. Cold drinks hold their bubbles better and taste crisper.
- Pour the orange juice. Add 90 ml (3 oz) of fresh orange juice into a champagne flute. If you’re making a batch, pour into each glass about halfway full.
- Add the champagne slowly. Gently pour in 90 ml (3 oz) of champagne to avoid too much fizz spilling over. Tilt the glass slightly as you pour to help keep the bubbles intact.
- Garnish and serve. Add a thin orange slice to the rim or a small twist inside the glass for a pop of color. Serve right away while it’s nice and bubbly.
Tips & Tricks
– Use freshly squeezed orange juice if you can—it’s brighter and less sweet than store-bought versions.
– For a drier drink, go with a Brut champagne or sparkling wine.
– Pour the juice first, then the champagne. It helps the drink mix naturally and keeps it from foaming over.
– Want to prep ahead? Chill everything in advance, then pour just before serving. Don’t mix early—the bubbles won’t wait!
Storage
This drink is best made fresh. If you’re prepping for a group, you can pour the orange juice into glasses ahead of time and keep them chilled. Add champagne just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving French Mimosas with brunch—especially on sunny weekends. They pair beautifully with:
– Flaky croissants or buttery pastries
– Fresh fruit like berries, melon, or citrus
– Light egg dishes like frittatas or poached eggs
– Smoked salmon or shrimp cocktail
It’s been my go-to cocktail for summer brunches and special mornings. It’s simple, but somehow always feels a little fancy.
Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? Try one of these fun twists:
Grand Mimosa
– Add a splash (about 15 ml) of Grand Marnier for a deeper orange flavor and a touch of warmth.
Berry Mimosa
– Swap orange juice for berry juice (like raspberry or blueberry). Garnish with a few fresh berries.
Sunrise Mimosa
– Add a dash of grenadine after pouring to create a layered, sunrise look.
Blood Orange Mimosa
– Use blood orange juice for a more vibrant color and a slightly richer citrus flavor.
Minty Mimosa
– Add a small mint sprig to the glass for a refreshing herbal note.
Virgin Mimosa
– Replace champagne with sparkling water or ginger ale. Still fizzy, still fun.
Substitutions
– No champagne? Use Prosecco or any dry sparkling wine.
– No fresh oranges? Use a high-quality, pulp-free orange juice from the store.
– Want it less sweet? Use more champagne than juice, or pick a very dry bubbly.
– Making it for kids or non-drinkers? Ginger ale or sparkling white grape juice works great.
FAQ
What’s the best champagne for a Mimosa?
Stick to dry (Brut) champagne or sparkling wine. It balances the sweetness of the juice.
Can I make Mimosas for a crowd?
Absolutely! Mix in a pitcher just before serving, or pre-fill glasses with juice and top with bubbly right at the table.
How do I make it less fizzy?
Pour slowly, or let the champagne sit for a moment before serving. But honestly, the bubbles are part of the charm.
Can I use other juices?
Yes! Try grapefruit, pineapple, cranberry, or pomegranate for fun variations.
Final Thoughts
The French Mimosa is proof that simple can be special. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always welcome at the table. Whether you’re toasting a celebration or just easing into a weekend, this bubbly classic is the perfect companion. Cheers!
