The mimosa cocktail is a delightful and refreshing drink that has become synonymous with brunch gatherings and celebratory occasions. Known for its bright, citrusy flavor and vibrant appearance, the mimosa is a simple yet elegant beverage that has won the hearts of many cocktail enthusiasts. A classic Mimosa cocktail is a simple blend of Champagne (or sparkling wine) and orange juice, served in a Champagne flute. Our Mimosa cocktail with sherry uses Lustau Manzanilla Papirusa in conjunction with sparkling wine, which adds a nice amount of salinity to accentuate the citrus flavors of the orange juice. The mimosa cocktail is more than just a drink; it is a celebration of life’s special moments. Its simplicity, versatility, and refreshing taste make it a beloved choice for any occasion.
COCKTAIL: Mimosa
Full Ingredients list
- 1.5oz Lustau Manzanilla Papirusa
- 1.5oz Champagne or Sparkling Wine
- 3oz Fresh squeezed orange juice
- Garnish: Orange twist
Recipe author: Steven Dragun
WHAT ARE THE ORIGINS OF THE MIMOSA?
The origins of the mimosa cocktail can be traced back to the early 20th century. Thought to have been created in 1925 by Frank Meier at the Ritz Hotel in Paris and named after the Mimosa tropical flowering shrub, Acacia dealbata, perhaps because of its trembling leaves, rather like the gentle fizz of this mixture. Great when made with freshly squeezed orange juice, this cocktail is very similar to the Buck’s Fizz, which tends to have a higher proportion of champagne. The Mimosa quickly gained popularity and was later renamed “Mimosa” after the Mimosa tree, which produces bright yellow flowers reminiscent of the cocktail’s sunny hue. Over the years, the mimosa has transcended its origins and become a staple at brunch tables around the world.
The cocktail made its print debut in Frank Meier’s 1936 book, The Artistry of Mixing Drinks titled “Mimosa or Champagne Orange” with the instruction, “In large wineglass, a piece of ice, the juice of one-half Orange; fill with Champagne stir and serve.” In his 1948 The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks, David A. Embury writes of this drink, “Just another freak champagne mixture. It is not half bad and the ladies usually like it. Use a good quality domestic champagne, medium dry.” It’s important to note that most mimosas that are served today are closer to a Buck Fizz, since they are typically served straight up without ice. Regardless of which version you prefer, the Mimosa has become the go-to brunch drink of the masses.
Learn more about what sherry wines and sherry-based vermouths can do for your brunch!
WHAT SHERRY IS BEST FOR A MIMOSA?
Any dry, biologically aged sherry will work well with our Mimosa. For our recipe, Lustau Manzanilla Papirusa stands out among the rest due to its crisp and refreshing nature, along with its high amount of salinity. This Manzanilla is laced with sea breeze scents and pleasant chamomile and flor aromas, with a hint of sea salt on the palate. The combination between the orange juice and manzanilla create a delicate and refreshingly acidic aftertaste that lingers on the palate.
This manzanilla is available in the Lustau Mixed Case. More than just a sherry wine Case, the Lustau Mixed Case is a gateway to discovery. Each half-bottle represents a distinct sherry style, from the crisp manzanilla to the indulgent pedro ximénez, allowing drinkers to experience the full range of Jerez wines. This selection is designed for both casual enjoyment and elaborate tastings, making it perfect for a guided sherry pairing session at home.
WHAT GLASS IS BEST TO SERVE A CLASSIC MIMOSA COCKTAIL IN?
If you look at some of the original Mimosa recipes, the cocktail calls for a large wine glass with ice. However, the standard glassware used today is a champagne flute or champagne coupe. The champagne glass is a stemmed glass with either a tall tapered conical shape or elongated slender bowl, generally holding about 6oz to 10oz (180 to 300 ml) of liquid.
WHAT TYPE OF ORANGE JUICE IS BEST FOR A MIMOSA?
Like any cocktail, fresh orange juice will always taste better. Store-bought juice tends to be less delicate and more acidic and tends to overpower the wine used in the cocktail. If using a store-bought juice, aim for something of good quality without pulp and not from concentrate.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO MAKE A HANKY PANKY COCKTAIL USING LUSTAU?
HOW TO PREPARE A MIMOSA WITH SHERRY AT HOME
1.Pour the manzanilla into a chilled Champagne flute
2 Pour the fresh squeezed orange juice into the glass
3.Top up the glass with champagne and stir gently
4. Express oil and garnish with an orange twist
FAQ
Why is it called a Buck’s Fizz in UK?
A Buck’s Fizz is the precursor to the Mimosa and was invented in London in 1921, just a few years before the Mimosa hit the scene in Paris.
Who invented the Mimosa?
The Mimosa was created in 1925 by Frank Meier at the Ritz Hotel in Paris and is named after the Mimosa tropical flowering shrub.
How much alcohol does a Mimosa have?
Depending on which wine you use, a Mimosa has between 6% and 7.5% ABV.
