Mimosa

What’s the best alcohol (Champagne) for a Mimosa?

Champagne is the traditional choice, and it adds that classic, sophisticated fizz. If you’re going for high-end, consider Moët & Chandon or Veuve Clicquot; these brands offer nuanced flavors to elevate your cocktail. On a budget? No worries. Prosecco is an excellent Italian alternative that’s often less expensive. La Marca and Mionetto are reliable brands that offer good quality without breaking the bank. If you prefer a sweeter touch, Spanish Cava, like Freixenet, might be your best bet. But here’s the bottom line: for a mimosa that ticks all the boxes, go for a brut Champagne or Prosecco. They offer the right balance of dryness and flavor to complement the sweet orange juice.

What is the difference between a Mimosa and a Bucks fizz?

The mimosa and the Buck’s Fizz are cocktails that feature a vibrant combination of citrus and sparkling wine, but there are some key differences between the two. First, the Buck’s Fizz originated in England, specifically at the Buck’s Club in London, in the 1920s. On the other hand, the mimosa generally claims American roots and gained fame around the same time.

Regarding ingredients, both drinks use orange juice and sparkling wine, but the ratios differ. A Buck’s Fizz traditionally leans more on the sparkling wine, often using a 2:1 ratio of sparkling wine to orange juice. The mimosa uses an equal-parts approach, keeping a 1:1 ratio between the wine and the juice.

Another point to consider is the type of sparkling wine used. While Champagne is a popular choice for both, the Buck’s Fizz originally featured it as a must-have, aligning with its British high-society origins. The mimosa is a bit more forgiving, often appearing in versions that use Prosecco, Cava, or other sparkling wines.

What food do you serve with Mimosas?

Mimosa cocktails pair exceptionally well with a variety of foods that you’d typically find on a late-morning spread. 

Think of light, fluffy pancakes topped with fresh berries or a hearty avocado toast sprinkled with just the right chili flakes. The mimosa’s citrusy kick cuts through the richness of eggs Benedict or a cheese omelet, balancing the meal and prepping your palate for the next bite. 

Don’t forget the seafood options; smoked salmon on a bagel or a shrimp cocktail can be fantastic counterparts to this bubbly beverage. 

Whether you’re leaning into the sweet or savory side of brunch, a mimosa serves as a versatile companion.

What juices can I use for a Mimosa?

Sure, the classic mimosa uses orange juice, but don’t let tradition box you in. Grapefruit juice offers a tart twist and adds a beautiful blush hue to your glass. If you’re looking for something more exotic, try pomegranate juice; it brings a rich color and a burst of antioxidants. Pineapple juice can transport you to a tropical paradise with just one sip, adding a sweet and tangy vibe to your brunch. Peach nectar makes for a sweeter, almost dessert-like experience, perfect for those who prefer less tang. Remember, no matter what juice you pick, the key is to use it freshly squeezed when possible.

Is there a relation with the Mimosa flower?

No, there is no direct relation. While they share the same name and offer vibrant colors, their similarities end there. The mimosa flower is often linked to International Women’s Day and symbolizes strength and femininity.

Mimosa variations

Want to do something similar yet different? Give a variation from our big selection of recommendations a try:

• Grand Mimosa: Elevating your experience, a splash of Grand Marnier joins Champagne, offering a sophisticated orange flavor. The cognac and bitter orange blend of Grand Marnier imparts a subtly woody taste. I admire its elegant citrus notes, perfect for celebratory moments.
• Tropical Mimosa: Merges sparkling wine with a mix of tropical juices like mango, pineapple, or passion fruit. The fruity mix adds sweetness and an exotic touch, reminiscent of a beach getaway. Its vibrant character is a mood booster for me.
• Berry Mimosa: Berry juices like raspberry, strawberry, or blackberry blend with the bubbly, creating a rich, fruity sweetness. This contrasts beautifully with the dryness of the Champagne.
• Sunrise Mimosa: Combining orange juice, a splash of grenadine, and sparkling wine, it presents a stunning gradient of colors. The sunrise effect is achieved by the settling grenadine, which also adds a sweet pomegranate flavor.
• Pomegranate Mimosa: Pomegranate juice and sparkling wine come together for a tart and slightly sweet mix. The deep red hue and antioxidants from the pomegranate make it visually striking and healthful.
• Apple Cider Mimosa: A cozy blend of apple cider and sparkling wine captures the essence of fall. The warm, spiced flavor of apple cider creates a comforting vibe, which I find perfect for chilly mornings.
• Pear Mimosa: Pear nectar and Champagne create a light, sweet, and fragrant mixture. The fresh taste of pear pairs well with the crisp bubbles.
• Cranberry Mimosa: A festive mix of cranberry juice and sparkling wine, ideal for celebrations. The bold, tart flavor and vibrant red color make it both tasty and visually appealing.
• Coconut Mimosa: Sparkling wine meets coconut water for a refreshing, slightly tropical twist. The subtle sweetness and nuttiness of coconut water create a light and enjoyable experience.
• Blushing Mimosa: Combines orange juice and grenadine with sparkling wine for a visually appealing drink. The sweet depth from grenadine enhances the citrus base.
• Hibiscus Mimosa: Sparkling wine infused with hibiscus syrup or tea adds a floral, tangy touch. The deep pink color and exotic flavor make it a unique choice.
• Bellini Mimosa: A fusion of peach purée and sparkling wine, inspired by the classic Bellini. The velvety texture and fragrant aroma of peach enrich the drink.
• Pineapple Coconut Mimosa: Combining pineapple juice and coconut cream with sparkling wine for a tropical experience. The tangy sweetness of pineapple and creamy coconut flavor are a delightful mix.
• Mango Mimosa: Mango nectar blends with sparkling wine for a lush, tropical sweetness. The rich, fruity flavor of mango is both refreshing and indulgent.
• Watermelon Mimosa: Fresh watermelon juice and sparkling wine create a perfect summer choice. The light, sweet watermelon flavor is ideal for hot days.
• Lavender Mimosa: An aromatic blend of lavender syrup with sparkling wine. The floral, slightly sweet lavender syrup offers a unique, calming quality.
• Kiwi Mimosa: Fresh kiwi purée and sparkling wine combine for a tangy, slightly sweet taste. The vibrant green color and zesty flavor of kiwi make it refreshing.
• Cherry Mimosa: Cherry juice or purée with sparkling wine for a fruity beverage. The sweet-tart flavor of cherries is both delicious and visually appealing.

History and origin

The mimosa cocktail has an interesting but somewhat murky history. While it shares similarities with the Buck’s Fizz, a British drink that predates it, the mimosa is generally credited as a creation from the United States. Most stories place its origin in the late 1920s or early 1930s. It gained its name from the mimosa flower, which has a bright, orange-yellow hue similar to the cocktail.

Frank Meier, a bartender at the Ritz Hotel in Paris, published the mimosa recipe in his 1936 book, “The Artistry of Mixing Drinks.” While Meier did not claim to have invented the mimosa, his book helped popularize it in Europe and the United States.

The mimosa’s simple orange juice and Champagne ingredient list made it an accessible and easily adaptable drink, contributing to its widespread appeal. Over the years, it became synonymous with brunch and daytime events, often served at weddings, baby showers, and other festive gatherings.