Citrus Mimosa: The Brunch Drink That Always Delivers

A mimosa is that cocktail that just knows how to set the mood. Light, bubbly and citrusy, it’s basically brunch royalty.

You see it at weddings, first class flights and every Sunday brunch where someone’s feeling fancy. It’s that easy, breezy sip that feels like a celebration even if you’re still in pajamas at noon.

This version? Straight-up sunshine in a glass. Fresh orange juice meets sparkling wine and the vibe is all about that feel-good, laid-back kinda day.

Wanna mix it up a bit? Add a splash of pomegranate juice. It gives it a little extra color, a little extra drama and suddenly your mimosa looks like it took more effort than it did.

Perfect for clinking glasses with friends or just easing into a lazy Sunday with your favorite playlist on repeat. No matter what, the citrus mimosa brings the sparkle.

What Is a Citrus Mimosa and Where Did It Come From?

The Mimosa is more than just a brunch classic; it’s a cocktail with some history. It was first created in 1925 at the Hôtel Ritz in Paris. The bartender, Frank Meier, is credited with mixing equal parts Champagne and orange juice and the drink was named after the mimosa flower for its bright, sunny color.

But there’s a little drama here. A similar drink called the Buck’s Fizz was invented in London in 1921, a few years before the mimosa. The only difference? The Buck’s Fizz has a bit more sparkling wine and a little less juice.

Today, the Mimosa is a staple at brunches, weddings and first-class flights, loved for its easygoing vibe and refreshing taste. It’s light, citrusy and easy to sip, which is why it’s been around for almost a century.

How to Make the Perfect Citrus Mimosa at Home

Wanna get that perfect Mimosa vibe without leaving your kitchen? Here’s how to do it:

• Chill everything: Keep the sparkling wine and glass ice cold so the bubbles stay crisp.
• Fresh juice only: Squeeze your own oranges. Store-bought juice works but fresh juice makes a big difference.
• Pour the bubbles first: Add the sparkling wine before the juice. It keeps the drink from foaming over.
• Keep the ratio classic: Go with one part orange juice and one part sparkling wine. If you like it stronger, add a little less juice.
• Garnish like you mean it: A slice of orange on the rim or a twist of peel adds that extra little touch.
• Make it fancy: Want to level up? Add a splash of pomegranate or cranberry juice for a pop of color and a hint of tartness.

Best Food Pairings for a Citrus Mimosa

Keep it light and fresh… the Citrus Mimosa has that zesty, bubbly vibe that pairs best with brunchy bites:

Smoked salmon crostini: The salty, savory salmon cuts through the sweetness of the orange juice.

Cheese and fruit platter: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese with fresh berries and orange slices.

Spinach and feta quiche: Creamy, tangy and just rich enough to balance those bubbles.

Citrus scones: Lemon or orange scones keep the citrus theme going and are perfect for dunking.

Chocolate-dipped strawberries: Sweet, tart and a little indulgent… just like the mimosa.

The Best Citrus Mimosa Recipe

With its bright, tangy flavor and effervescent bubbles, this citrus mimosa is a crowd-pleaser. The combination of fresh orange juice and sparkling wine creates a light and refreshing drink that is both invigorating and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 bottle of chilled sparkling wine (such as Champagne or Prosecco)
• 2 cups fresh orange juice (about 4-6 oranges)
• Orange slices for garnish (optional)

Zero-Proof Mimosa: Replace the sparkling wine with sparkling water or ginger ale and keep the juice as is. Same brunch vibes, no booze.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Squeeze the oranges to get fresh juice and set aside.
2. Mix the Mimosa: In a champagne flute, pour about half orange juice and top it off with sparkling wine.
3. Garnish: Add an orange slice on the rim of the glass for a decorative touch.
4. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your refreshing mimosa while it’s bubbly and cold.

Prep Times

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4 glasses
• Calories: 211 kcal
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 18g

Citrus Mimosa Variations to Try

Wanna switch it up? Here are some easy ways to remix the classic Mimosa:

Tropical Mimosa: Swap the orange juice for pineapple or mango juice for a beachy vibe.

Berry Mimosa: Add a splash of cranberry or pomegranate juice for a pop of color and a little tartness.

Grapefruit Mimosa: Use grapefruit juice instead of orange for a slightly bitter twist.

Lavender Mimosa: Add a few drops of lavender syrup for a floral note that’s totally brunch-worthy.

Did you enjoy this citrus mimosa and want to try some other mimosa recipes? Why not a cranberry mimosa or a leprechaun mimosa? Or maybe a Screwdriver if you want something a bit stronger.

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Yield: 4

Citrus Mimosa Cocktail Recipe

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Upgrade your brunch game with this Citrus Mimosa recipe! A bubbly, citrusy delight that’s perfect for everything from weddings to casual lunches with friends.

Prep Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 bottle of chilled sparkling wine (such as Champagne or Prosecco)
• 2 cups fresh orange juice (about 4-6 oranges)
• Orange slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Squeeze the oranges to get fresh juice and set aside.
2. Mix the Mimosa: In a champagne flute, pour about half orange juice and top it off with sparkling wine.
3. Garnish: Add an orange slice on the rim of the glass for a decorative touch.
4. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your refreshing mimosa while it's bubbly and cold.

Notes

Zero-Proof Mimosa: Replace the sparkling wine with sparkling water or ginger ale and keep the juice as is. Same brunch vibes, no booze.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 211Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 11mgCarbohydrates: 18gFiber: 0gSugar: 13gProtein: 1g

This nutrition information was automatically calculated by Nutritionix, but may not be 100% accurate.