Mimosas are one of the most beloved brunch cocktails. The delightful mix of champagne and orange juice creates a refreshing, bubbly drink perfect for any occasion. But the real question is: what is the best champagne for mimosas? While there are many options to choose from, the right champagne can elevate this simple cocktail to new heights. In this guide, we will explore various types of champagne and sparkling wines, focusing on what makes the best choice for mimosas.
What Makes a Good Mimosa Champagne?
When selecting champagne for mimosas, the goal is to find a sparkling wine that complements the orange juice without overpowering it. Mimosas are a balance between acidity, sweetness, and bubbles. Here are a few key factors to consider:
Flavor Balance: You want a champagne that’s not too sweet or too dry.
Acidity: Champagne with higher acidity pairs well with the citrus flavor of orange juice.
Bubbles: The effervescence is what makes mimosas exciting, so a champagne that holds its bubbles well is essential.
Types of Champagne: Brut, Extra Dry, or Sec?
Champagne comes in various sweetness levels, and it’s important to know which one suits a mimosa best. Let’s explore the main types:
Brut Champagne: This is the most popular style for mimosas. It’s dry, crisp, and works well with the sweetness of the orange juice. Brut has a very low sugar content, so it won’t make your mimosa overly sweet.
Extra Dry Champagne: Despite its name, Extra Dry champagne is slightly sweeter than Brut. It has a delicate balance between dryness and sweetness, making it another good option for mimosas, especially if you prefer a touch more sweetness.
Sec and Demi-Sec: These are sweeter versions of champagne. While they can be used for mimosas, they are typically too sweet for most people’s taste when paired with orange juice.
Best Brut Champagnes for Mimosas
Brut champagnes are usually the go-to choice for making mimosas. They provide a crisp, clean backdrop that lets the orange juice shine while still delivering bubbles and a subtle flavor. Here are some top Brut champagnes to consider:
Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label: This iconic champagne is known for its crisp and full-bodied flavor. The citrus and brioche notes pair beautifully with orange juice, creating a sophisticated mimosa.
Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial: Another classic choice, Moët & Chandon offers a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier. Its bright acidity and fruity flavor make it perfect for mimosas.
Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut: This champagne offers a floral and fresh flavor profile with hints of apple and lemon. The vibrant bubbles make it a great option for a lively mimosa.
See Also: What Type of Wine is Merlot? One of the World’s Most Popular Wines
Affordable Champagnes for Mimosas
While premium champagnes offer a luxurious touch, there are plenty of affordable options that make excellent mimosas. Here are some budget-friendly choices:
Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Réserve: This is an affordable yet high-quality option that provides fresh and fruity flavors. The balance between acidity and fruit makes it a perfect partner for orange juice.
Jacquart Brut Mosaïque: With its crisp citrus notes and clean finish, Jacquart Brut Mosaïque is an excellent choice for mimosas. The price point is moderate, making it an accessible option without sacrificing quality.
Charles de Fère Cuvée Jean-Louis Brut: This sparkling wine is not a true champagne, but it’s often recommended for mimosas due to its refreshing and light profile. It offers vibrant bubbles and a balanced taste that works well with orange juice.
Non-Champagne Options: Prosecco and Cava
Not all sparkling wines are from the Champagne region of France, and that’s okay! There are other sparkling wines that can be just as delightful in a mimosa. Prosecco and Cava are popular alternatives that often come at a fraction of the price of champagne.
Prosecco: This Italian sparkling wine is typically lighter and more fruit-forward than champagne, making it an excellent choice for mimosas. Brands like La Marca Prosecco offer a fresh and fruity taste, with bubbles that hold up well in the cocktail.
Cava: Cava is a Spanish sparkling wine that is produced using the same method as champagne but usually at a lower price. Freixenet Cordon Negro is a popular choice that provides a crisp, dry taste with just the right amount of acidity for a mimosa.
How to Make the Perfect Mimosa
Now that you know which champagne to choose, let’s go over how to make the perfect mimosa. The recipe is simple, but a few tips can elevate your mimosa to perfection.
Ingredients: All you need is champagne and orange juice. Fresh-squeezed orange juice is always recommended, as it provides a brighter, more natural flavor compared to store-bought juice.
Ratio: The classic mimosa ratio is one part champagne to one part orange juice. However, you can adjust this based on your preference. If you prefer a stronger cocktail, go heavier on the champagne.
Glassware: Use a champagne flute to serve mimosas. The narrow shape helps retain the bubbles, keeping your drink fizzy for longer.
Garnish: A simple orange slice or a twist of orange peel can add a decorative touch to your mimosa.
Pairing Mimosas with Food
Mimosas are a classic brunch cocktail, and they pair wonderfully with a variety of foods. Here are some brunch items that
complement the bright, citrusy flavors of mimosas:
Eggs Benedict: The richness of the hollandaise sauce is perfectly balanced by the acidity in the mimosa.
Avocado Toast: The fresh, creamy flavors of avocado toast are enhanced by the crispness of the champagne.
Smoked Salmon: The saltiness of smoked salmon pairs beautifully with the slight sweetness of the orange juice in the mimosa.
Pancakes or Waffles: The sweet and fluffy texture of pancakes or waffles works well with the refreshing bubbles of a mimosa.
Mimosa Variations
While the classic mimosa is made with orange juice, there are plenty of variations to explore if you’re feeling adventurous. Here are a few ideas:
Blood Orange Mimosa: Replace regular orange juice with blood orange juice for a richer, more intense flavor and a beautiful ruby-red color.
Pineapple Mimosa: For a tropical twist, use pineapple juice instead of orange juice. It adds a sweet and tangy flavor that’s perfect for summer brunches.
Cranberry Mimosa: A cranberry mimosa is a festive option, especially during the holiday season. The tartness of the cranberry juice pairs well with the bubbles of the champagne.
Peach Bellini: While technically not a mimosa, the peach bellini is a delicious alternative. Made with peach purée and champagne, it offers a sweet and fruity flavor.
Champagne or Sparkling Wine? Does It Really Matter?
You might be wondering whether you need to use champagne for your mimosas or if any sparkling wine will do. The truth is, while champagne is traditional, any good-quality sparkling wine can make an excellent mimosa. Whether you choose Prosecco, Cava, or another sparkling wine, the key is to find one that complements the orange juice and offers the right level of bubbles and acidity.
Conclusion
Choosing the best champagne for mimosas depends on your personal preference. Whether you prefer a crisp Brut champagne or a fruitier Prosecco, the most important thing is to enjoy the process of making and drinking this delightful cocktail. With the right champagne, fresh orange juice, and a few simple tips, you can create the perfect mimosa for any occasion.
Mimosas are more than just a drink—they’re a celebration in a glass. So, pop the cork, pour the champagne, and enjoy the timeless elegance of this brunch favorite.
