The mimosa is one of the most celebrated brunch cocktails ever created. Simple, elegant, and endlessly adaptable, this sparkling favorite combines citrus and bubbles into a light, refreshing drink that feels right at home during weddings, brunches, and celebrations of all kinds. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make a mimosa, discover the classic mimosa recipe, and explore popular variations such as the strawberry mimosa, cranberry mimosa, pineapple mimosa, and more.
What Is a Mimosa
A mimosa is a cocktail traditionally made by combining chilled sparkling wine with orange juice, typically served in a champagne flute. The flavor is bright and crisp, and the effervescence makes it both festive and easy to enjoy. Although the orange juice version is the most common, the drink’s simplicity allows for countless variations with different fruits. Whether you choose champagne, prosecco, or another sparkling wine, the result should always be light, refreshing, and well-balanced.
How to Make a Mimosa
The classic mimosa recipe uses just two ingredients. For one serving, you’ll need:
- 3 ounces chilled sparkling wine (champagne, prosecco, or cava)
- 3 ounces chilled orange juice (preferably fresh or pulp-free)
- Optional garnish: an orange slice or twist
Pour the sparkling wine into a chilled champagne flute, then gently add the orange juice. Pouring the wine first helps preserve the bubbles. Avoid stirring or adding ice, as both will reduce carbonation. Serve immediately while cold and fizzy.
Finding the Best Mimosa Recipe
A mimosa typically has only two ingredients, so the quality of each makes a significant difference. Choose a dry sparkling wine rather than a sweet one to let the wine’s natural flavors shine through. Which sparkling wine to pick? Check out Winefolly’s guide, Sparkling Wine Explained (From Dry to Sweet). Fresh-squeezed or high-quality orange juice gives the best result, and keeping both components chilled ensures maximum fizz. Watch Alpha Foodies’ YouTube short for tips and tricks on getting the best fresh-squeezed orange juice. For gatherings, prepare the ingredients ahead of time and mix them right before serving to keep everything fresh and lively.
The ratio can be adjusted to taste. Some prefer equal parts wine and juice for a balanced drink, while others choose two parts wine to one part juice for a crisp, less sweet version.
Mimosa Cocktail Variations
One reason the mimosa cocktail has remained so popular is its ease of adaptation. Here are some delicious ways to make it your own:
Strawberry Mimosa – Blend or muddle fresh strawberries and mix with sparkling wine for a sweet, berry-flavored take.
Cranberry Mimosa – Enjoy a tart, ruby-colored drink perfect for the winter holidays, made with cranberry juice. A great addition to seasonal menus in November and December!
Prosecco Mimosa – Substitute prosecco for champagne to create a lighter, fruitier version that’s often more affordable but just as festive.
Pineapple Mimosa – Replace orange juice with pineapple juice for a tropical twist that pairs perfectly with brunch foods.
Peach Mimosa – Use peach nectar or puree for a soft, summer-ready flavor similar to a Bellini.
Mango Mimosa – Try mango juice or puree for a richer, golden version with smooth tropical flavor.
Orange Juice Mimosa – The classic combination remains timeless: crisp sparkling wine and bright orange juice.
Frozen Mimosa – Blend juice, sparkling wine, and frozen fruit into a slushy for warm-weather gatherings.
Champagne Mimosa – Using traditional French champagne elevates the drink with fine bubbles and a refined finish.
Each variation follows the same general rule: balance sweetness and acidity while maintaining the drink’s cold and sparkling character.
Mimosa Cocktail Ingredients
For a perfect mimosa, gather:
- Sparkling wine such as champagne, prosecco, or cava
- Fruit juice of choice (orange, cranberry, pineapple, peach, or mango)
- Fresh fruit slices or berries for garnish
- Chilled champagne flutes or stemless glasses
Keeping everything cold is key. Warm juice or glasses can cause carbonation to fade too quickly.
Easy Mimosa Recipe
For a simple, crowd-pleasing mimosa:
- Chill both the wine and the juice.
- Fill half the glass with sparkling wine.
- Top with an equal amount of juice.
- Serve right away.
This easy mimosa recipe is a staple for brunch events and can be scaled up for pitchers or self-serve mimosa bars.
Mimosa Tips and FAQs
Can you make a mimosa without alcohol?
Yes. Use sparkling water or nonalcoholic sparkling wine instead for a refreshing “virgin” version.
What is the best ratio for a mimosa?
Two parts sparkling wine to one part juice creates a well-balanced drink that isn’t too sweet.
What’s the best wine to use?
A dry sparkling wine, such as Brut champagne, Cava, or Prosecco, works best. The dryness helps cut the sweetness of the juice.
Can mimosas be made ahead of time?
Prepare the ingredients in advance, but mix just before serving. This keeps the bubbles intact.
Why does a mimosa go flat quickly?
Flat mimosas typically result from the use of warm ingredients, dirty glasses, or overmixing. Keep everything cold and pour gently.
Classic Mimosa Recipe Summary
The mimosa is a versatile, festive cocktail with endless possibilities. Whether you prefer the traditional orange juice mimosa or want to explore variations like the strawberry, cranberry, pineapple, or prosecco mimosa, every version offers its own refreshing charm. By using high-quality ingredients, serving immediately, and keeping everything chilled, you’ll create a drink that feels both effortless and celebratory.
Looking for more drink recipes?
Check out our Breaking Down series for more blogs!
Get Certified to Serve Alcohol Responsibly
Before you pour your next round, remember that knowing how to make a great cocktail is only half the skill. Understanding how to serve it responsibly is what distinguishes true professionals from others.
If you work in a bar, restaurant, or hospitality venue, you’re required by law to hold valid alcohol training in most states. Our state-approved alcohol seller-server certification courses are designed to help you stay compliant, protect your business, and ensure the safety of every guest.
Learn at your own pace from any device, and once you finish, download your official certificate instantly. Whether you’re serving brunch mimosas or late-night cocktails, Serving Alcohol makes sure you do it the right way.
Start your state-approved certification today at ServingAlcohol.com.
