Clementine Champagne Cocktails add a bright twist to classic bubbly drinks. These refreshing sippers blend the sweet-tart flavor of clementines with the celebratory pop of champagne.
The recipe mixes fresh clementine juice, simple syrup, and chilled champagne for an easy yet elegant cocktail.
Perfect for brunches, parties, or New Year’s toasts, this citrusy champagne drink comes together in minutes. The vibrant orange hue and bubbly effervescence make it as pretty as it is tasty. Garnish with a clementine slice or twist of peel for an extra festive touch.
Anyone can whip up this simple yet sophisticated cocktail at home. The bright clementine flavor pairs well with dry champagne or sparkling wine. For a non-alcoholic version, swap in sparkling water or ginger ale instead of champagne.
Clementine Champagne Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Champagne flutes
- Juicer or citrus reamer
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Small bowl
- Cocktail spoon
- Cutting Board
- Sharp knife
Ingredients
For each cocktail, you’ll need:
- 2 oz fresh clementine juice about 2-3 clementines
- 4 oz chilled champagne or sparkling wine
- 1 tsp sugar optional
- Clementine slice for garnish
Use ripe clementines for the best flavor. Pick a dry champagne or sparkling wine you enjoy drinking on its own.
Instructions
- Wash the clementines and cut them in half.
- Juice the clementines using a juicer or citrus reamer.
- Strain the juice through a fine mesh strainer into a small bowl to remove pulp and seeds.
- If using sugar, stir it into the juice until it dissolves.
- Pour the clementine juice into a champagne flute.
- Slowly add the chilled champagne or sparkling wine.
- Gently stir with a cocktail spoon to mix.
- Garnish with a thin slice of clementine on the rim of the glass.
- Serve right away while the drink is cold and bubbly.
Notes
Tasting Notes
The Clementine Champagne Cocktail offers a bright and refreshing flavor profile. Its taste is a blend of sweet and tart notes, with a bubbly texture from the champagne.
The clementine juice brings a sweet citrus taste. It’s lighter and less acidic than orange juice. The champagne adds a crisp, dry quality that balances the fruit’s sweetness.
A hint of orange bitters gives depth and complexity. It adds a subtle spicy note that complements the citrus flavors.
The drink has a light, effervescent mouthfeel. Tiny bubbles tickle the tongue with each sip. The cocktail finishes clean and dry, leaving a pleasant citrus aftertaste.
This cocktail is best served chilled. The cold temperature enhances its crispness and refreshing qualities. It’s a perfect choice for warm weather or celebratory occasions.
Flavor profile:
- Sweet: Clementine juice
- Tart: Champagne
- Spicy: Orange bitters
- Bubbly: Champagne carbonation
The drink’s pale orange color is visually appealing. It ranges from light peach to golden, depending on the champagne used.
Substitute
If you don’t have Clementine Champagne on hand, there are other options to try.
Regular champagne or sparkling wine works well as a base. For the clementine flavor, use fresh-squeezed clementine juice or orange juice.
No clementines? Try tangerines or oranges instead.
Their juice and zest can give a similar citrusy kick to the cocktail.
For a non-alcoholic version, swap the champagne for sparkling water or lemon-lime soda. This creates a refreshing mocktail anyone can enjoy.
Here’s a quick substitution guide:
- Champagne → Prosecco or sparkling wine
- Clementine juice → Orange or tangerine juice
- Clementine zest → Orange or lemon zest
- Sugar → Honey or agave nectar