When it comes to sophistication and celebration, nothing quite says “cheers” like a glass of champagne. However, the iconic French bubbly isn’t just reserved for toasts—it’s also a key ingredient in some of the world’s best champagne cocktails. From classic combinations that have stood the test of time to newer twists that elevate the champagne experience, there’s a lot to explore. In this article, we’ll dive into the origins of these champagne cocktails, what made them famous, and provide tips and tricks to help you recreate them perfectly at home.
1. The Classic Champagne Cocktail: A Simple, Timeless Favorite
Origins & Fame of the Classic Champagne Cocktail
Dating back to the mid-19th century, the Classic Champagne Cocktail is an old-school favorite with an air of timeless elegance. This cocktail first appeared in The Bartender’s Guide by Jerry Thomas in 1862, making it one of the earliest known champagne cocktails. The simplicity of this cocktail is what makes it so enduring. It combines a sugar cube, Angostura bitters, and a splash of cognac, all topped with champagne.
How to Make the Classic Champagne Cocktail:
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
- 1 oz Cognac (optional)
- Top with Brut Champagne
- Garnish with a lemon twist
Tip: For an extra touch of class, make sure your champagne is well-chilled. Use Brut champagne or dry sparkling wine to balance the sweetness of the sugar cube. Swirl gently before sipping to mix the ingredients without losing too much fizz.
2. The Mimosa: One of the Best Champagne Cocktails for Brunch
The Rise to Fame of the Mimosa
You can’t talk about the best champagne cocktails without mentioning the Mimosa, the brunch hero. This cocktail became popular in the 1920s, credited to Frank Meier of the Ritz Hotel in Paris. The blend of champagne and orange juice—typically served in a flute—became a fashionable, light drink to enjoy in the morning or at lunch. Its simplicity made it accessible to everyone, from at-home brunch crowds to high-end restaurant menus.
How to Make a Mimosa:
- 1 part fresh orange juice (about 3 oz)
- 1 part Champagne or sparkling wine (about 3 oz)
- Optional: splash of Grand Marnier for an extra twist
Tip: Always use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor. For an extra zing, try adding a splash of Grand Marnier or triple sec to enhance the citrus notes.
3. The French 75: A Bold Champagne Cocktail with a Punch
Why the French 75 is One of the Best Champagne Cocktails
The French 75 is a champagne cocktail with character—strong, zesty, and perfectly bubbly. Invented during World War I and named after the French 75mm field gun due to its punchy kick, this cocktail rose to fame in Paris. By combining gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne, the French 75 delivers a balance of tartness, sweetness, and effervescence.
How to Make a French 75:
- 1 oz gin
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Top with Champagne
- Garnish with a lemon twist or cherry
Tip: Be cautious when shaking the gin, lemon, and simple syrup to avoid over-dilution. Top it off with just enough champagne to maintain a strong, bubbly presence.
4. The Bellini: A Fruity Champagne Cocktail from Italy
The Story Behind the Bellini’s Fame
The Bellini, born in the iconic Harry’s Bar in Venice, Italy, in the 1940s, quickly became a favorite of European aristocrats, artists, and celebrities. The combination of fresh peach purée and Prosecco became a refreshing and delicious drink for warm-weather celebrations, making it one of the best champagne cocktails for summer.
How to Make a Bellini:
- 2 oz fresh peach purée (white peaches are traditional)
- 4 oz Prosecco or Champagne
- Optional: 1/2 tsp of raspberry purée for color
Tip: If you can’t find fresh white peaches, use frozen ones or high-quality peach nectar. Gently stir in the Prosecco to keep the bubbles intact.
5. Kir Royale: A Royal French Champagne Cocktail
What Made the Kir Royale One of the Best Champagne Cocktails
The Kir Royale, a champagne cocktail variation of the classic Kir, became a chic French staple in the 20th century. With its vibrant color and the subtle sweetness from crème de cassis, this drink is both simple and luxurious—perfect for celebrating special occasions.
How to Make a Kir Royale:
- 1/2 oz crème de cassis (or Chambord for a raspberry twist)
- 4 oz Champagne or sparkling wine
Tip: Don’t overdo it with the cassis! A small amount goes a long way. Experiment with other liqueurs like Chambord for a fruity twist.
Tips for Making the Best Champagne Cocktails at Home
1. Choose the Right Champagne for Cocktails
While it’s tempting to splurge on high-end champagne, cocktails don’t require vintage bottles. Opt for a good quality Brut or dry sparkling wine like Cava or Prosecco for the best results. The dryness balances the sweetness in most recipes.
2. Keep Everything Chilled
Champagne is best served cold, so make sure your bottle is well-chilled before mixing. You might even consider chilling your glassware to keep your drink crisp and refreshing. Having a set of elegant champagne flutes adds a classy touch to your presentation and helps maintain the bubbles longer.
3. Master the Art of Opening a Bottle
For a touch of drama, you can open your bottle with a champagne saber. Sabrage is an old tradition where a sword is used to cleanly slice off the top of a bottle. It’s a fun way to impress your guests, and it’s easier than it looks with the right tool. Make sure to practice safety, though!
4. Don’t Overmix
When adding champagne to your cocktail, stir gently or not at all to preserve the bubbles. Overmixing will cause the drink to go flat. Let the natural fizz do its job!
5. Add a Garnish to Enhance the Flavor
A garnish can take your champagne cocktails to the next level. Think of lemon twists, fresh fruit slices, or edible flowers for an extra touch of elegance. Not only do they look beautiful, but they can enhance the aroma and flavor of your drink.
Final Thoughts: Bring the Best Champagne Cocktails to Life
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in some weekend relaxation, champagne cocktails bring a touch of elegance and joy to any gathering. From the timeless Classic Champagne Cocktail to the crowd-favorite Mimosa, these drinks have stood the test of time. So next time you pop open a bottle of bubbly, why not try one of the best champagne cocktails and elevate your moment?
Cheers to making every sip count!