A classic mimosa combines fresh orange juice and sparkling wine to create a bright and refreshing cocktail perfect for brunch. Making a mimosa requires just two ingredients. It also takes less than a minute to prepare.
The citrus and bubbles work together to create a light drink that makes any morning feel special.
The best mimosas start with high-quality, freshly squeezed orange juice rather than juice from concentrate. This adds natural sweetness and a smooth texture that store-bought juice can’t match. The fresh juice also provides more vitamin C and a cleaner taste.
Mimosas gained popularity in Paris during the 1920s and have remained a staple of weekend brunches ever since. The drink gets its name from the yellow mimosa flower, which shares the same golden color as the cocktail. The simple recipe makes it easy to serve at parties or prepare as a casual weekend treat.
Equipment
- Manual citrus juicer
Ingredients
- 6 fresh oranges
- 1 bottle chilled Prosecco or Champagne
- Optional garnish: orange slices or twists
- Per Glass
- 3 oz fresh orange juice
- 3 oz chilled sparkling wine
Instructions
- Wash oranges and cut them in half.
- Chill fresh orange juice for at least 30 minutes.
- Fill champagne flutes halfway (3 oz) with chilled sparkling wine.
- Gently pour 3 oz of cold orange juice into each glass.
- Add garnish if desired. Serve right away.
Notes
Tasting Notes
This classic brunch cocktail has a bright, citrusy taste with sweet and bubbly notes. The fresh orange juice delivers natural sweetness and tangy flavors that blend smoothly with the sparkling wine.
The drink starts crisp and effervescent on the palate. Fresh-squeezed orange juice makes a noticeable difference compared to store-bought juice, adding intense citrus aromas and a clean, natural sweetness.
Key Flavor Notes:
- Sweet orange
- Light bubbles
- Subtle wine notes
- Fresh citrus aroma
- Clean finish
The texture is light and refreshing with tiny bubbles that tickle the tongue. The drink maintains a perfect balance between the wine’s dryness and the orange juice’s sweetness.
The finish leaves a pleasant citrus taste that doesn’t linger too long. This makes it an excellent choice for sipping throughout a meal or social gathering.
Temperature Impact: Serving this drink ice-cold brings out the best flavors and keeps the bubbles lively. As it warms up, the sweetness becomes more prominent.
The color ranges from pale peach to golden orange, depending on the type of oranges used. Fresh pulp adds visual appeal and extra flavor depth to each sip.

