How to Make a Mimosa Cocktail: A Simple Guide for Perfect Brunch Drinks

If you’re after a simple, refreshing cocktail that feels like a little celebration, learning how to make a mimosa cocktail is the way to go.

A mimosa is just equal parts chilled sparkling wine and fresh orange juice—light, bubbly, and really easy to enjoy.

It’s only two ingredients and a few quick steps, so it’s perfect for brunch, parties, or any time you want a fun, quick cocktail.

Mimosas are easy, but a few tips can help yours taste better and look nicer.

Cold, pulp-free orange juice and good sparkling wine balance the flavors, and pouring the wine first keeps the bubbles from vanishing too quickly.

Let’s walk through what you need to make a great mimosa at home.

From picking the best ingredients to nailing the pour, this guide’s got you covered.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or want to mix it up, knowing the basics means you’ll enjoy this cocktail every time.

For more ideas, check out this classic mimosa recipe if you want to dive deeper.

How to Make a Mimosa Cocktail

Making a mimosa is honestly as easy as it gets.

It’s all about finding that sweet spot between sparkling wine and orange juice for a bright, refreshing drink.

The ingredients, steps, wine choice, and even the glass you use can make a difference.

Essential Recipe

MIMOSA COCKTAIL
(3 MINUTES | VERY EASY | SERVES 1)

Nutrition per serving:
125 Cals, 0g Protein, 10g Carbs, 0g Fat, 9g Sugar

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EQUIPMENT

• Champagne flute

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INGREDIENTS

• 2.5 oz chilled orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
• 2.5 oz chilled sparkling wine (Champagne, Prosecco, or Cava)

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TO SERVE (OPTIONAL)

• Orange twist or slice

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METHOD

Pour the Juice:
Pour the orange juice into a champagne flute first.

Top with Bubbles:
Slowly top with sparkling wine to prevent overflow and preserve the bubbles.

Garnish:
Add an orange twist or slice on the rim, if desired.

Serve:
Serve immediately and enjoy this bright and bubbly brunch classic.

Mimosa Cocktail Infographic

Choosing the Right Sparkling Wine

Your choice of sparkling wine really does matter.

Brut champagnes are dry and a bit fancy, but they can be pricey. Prosecco is fruitier and usually cheaper, while cava is crisp and budget-friendly.

We’d steer clear of sweet sparkling wines—they’ll make your mimosa taste more like soda than a cocktail.

Best Glassware for Mimosas

Champagne flutes are the classic pick because their tall, skinny shape keeps the bubbles around longer.

Wine glasses work in a pinch, but the fizz won’t last as long. For brunch, clean champagne flutes just look right and feel a little special.

Creative Mimosa Variations and Serving Tips

Making a mimosa is fun, but mixing things up can add some excitement to brunch.

Try swapping juices, setting up a mimosa bar, or adding simple garnishes for extra flair.

Fruit and Juice Alternatives

If you’re bored of orange juice, there are plenty of options.

Pineapple juice gives a tropical twist, cranberry or pomegranate juice adds tartness and a pop of color, and grapefruit juice brings a refreshing bitterness.

Fresh-squeezed juice always tastes brightest, but do what works for you.

Peach puree or apple cider makes things richer and sweeter, kind of like a Bellini.

For a grown-up kick, a splash of orange liqueur like Grand Marnier adds depth. All these swaps keep mimosas gluten-free and low in sodium, with calories depending on your juice.

Mimosa Bar Ideas for Brunch

If you’re hosting brunch, a mimosa bar is a crowd-pleaser.

Set out chilled sparkling wine and a few different juices in pitchers. Pile on fresh fruit—orange slices, strawberries, raspberries, maybe some pomegranate seeds.

Label the juices so people know what’s what. Throw in some fresh herbs like mint for color and aroma.

Let guests pour their own, starting with the wine to keep things fizzy. It’s a fun, interactive way to serve mimosas that gets everyone involved.

Garnish and Presentation Suggestions

Looks matter—don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Try orange slices on the rim, a couple raspberries floating, or a mint sprig for a fresh touch. Champagne flutes help keep bubbles going and drinks cool.

For something festive, toss in pomegranate seeds or a few herbs right in the glass. Rimming glasses with sugar adds a little sweetness and makes things look fancy without much effort.

Small details like these really do make each sip a little more special.

Nutritional Information

Mimosas are pretty light, but it depends on your juice and pour size.

Most classic mimosas land around 100–120 calories a glass.

Sticking to juices with no added sugar keeps calories and sodium in check.

There’s a bit of vitamin C and potassium from the juice, so it’s not all empty calories.

Mimosas are naturally gluten-free, so most folks can enjoy them. Just keep an eye on those ingredients if you’re watching your intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Want to make your mimosa really pop? It helps to know the right ratios, which sparkling wines are best, and how to throw in fresh flavors—maybe even a splash of something stronger.

Let’s tackle some common questions about proportions, champagne picks, and creative twists like strawberries or vodka.

What are the best proportions for a classic mimosa recipe?

The standard is two parts orange juice to one part sparkling wine.

This keeps things fresh and light, but if you like more wine flavor, go for equal parts.

Which type of champagne is recommended for making a high-quality mimosa?

Dry or extra dry champagne is your friend here.

Brut champagnes are popular because their crisp acidity balances the sweetness of the juice. Sweeter champagnes can make everything a bit cloying, so best to avoid those.

Can you make a mimosa with Prosecco, and if so, how is it different?

Absolutely, you can use Prosecco.

It’s a bit fruitier and less dry than Champagne, so your mimosa will taste lighter and maybe a touch floral—plus, it’s usually more affordable source.

What variations of the traditional mimosa cocktail can you make with strawberries?

Try muddling strawberries or tossing in a few slices for a sweeter, colorful spin.

You can infuse the juice with strawberries ahead of time or just garnish with them for extra flavor and a pop of color.

Is there a specific type of vodka that pairs well with mimosas?

Stick with a clean, neutral vodka so it doesn’t overpower the drink.

Citrus-flavored vodkas can work, but honestly, smooth and mild is the way to go for balance.

Why do mimosas traditionally use orange juice, and what is the history behind it?

Orange juice gets the spotlight for its bright, fresh flavor. That natural sweetness really takes the edge off sparkling wine’s dryness.

The mimosa popped up at the Ritz Hotel back in the 1920s. They named it after the yellow mimosa flower, which kind of makes sense—the drink’s color and light vibe are a perfect match.