The iconic brunch beverage — a vibrant and light cocktail recipe featuring sparkling wine and orange juice. It’s one of the easiest cocktails to prepare and can be made in batches, too.
While you may have asked, “What’s the best Champagne for mimosas?,” the answer is not just Champagne. There are so many other delicious sparkling wine options to make a mimosa. Prosecco, Cava, and other sparkling wines are generally a little more affordable and create that perfect mimosa flavor you are looking for. So, skip the Champagne (or not, we won’t judge!) and grab a bottle from our favorite selections below.
How to make mimosas
What you need to make a mimosa:
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Orange juice
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Champagne or Sparkling Wine
That’s it! 
The perfect mimosa ratio is 50/50 Champagne or sparkling wine to orange juice. There is some debate about whether the orange juice or sparkling wine should be poured first, but we recommend pouring the orange juice into your glass first and then topping it off with your favorite chilled sparkling wine. If you want to give it an extra flare, add an orange slice to garnish.
The best juice for a mimosa is any well-chilled orange juice. The pulp may cause some extra fizz, so we suggest going for a pulp-free version. If you have the time, freshly squeeze orange juice to add extra brightness to the cocktail.
Want to – mix it up? Experiment and swap out the classic combination of orange juice and sparkling wine for something else. Try mango, pineapple, or pomegranate juice instead. A notable variation on the mimosa is the classic Italian cocktail, the Bellini. Instead of orange juice, peach puree is the star, accenting the citrus-forward flavors of Prosecco with the sweet stone fruit juice.
History of the cocktail
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In 1921 at the Buck’s Club in London, the Buck’s Fizz cocktail was created. It varied a little from the mimosa recipe we know today, featuring as much champagne to orange juice.
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In 1925 in Paris, France at the Ritz Hotel, Frank Meier created a slightly more even ratio version like the recipe we know today. It can be found in his book, “The Artistry of Mixing Drinks”.
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In the 1940s, some claim the renowned movie director Alfred Hitchcock created this infamous cocktail. While it is unlikely Hitchcock is the true originator, his fame helped to popularize the drink in the U.S. and make it the brunch staple we love today.
No one is sure who created the first mimosa cocktail, but there are three popular origin stories.
So, what’s the best sparkling wine for mimosas?
Now that you have the recipe, and a little history too, it’s time to choose your wine. Explore our top picks based on what you’re looking for in your mimosa.
Best Cava: Borrasca Brut Cava
If you’ve never tried Cava in a mimosa, this is our go-to. Cava is made using the traditional method just like Champagne, so it boasts that same level of effervescent bubbles. With fruit flavors of apple, pear, and citrus, this crisp, bright Cava complements the sweet flavors from the orange juice in your cocktail.
Best Prosecco: La Vostra Prosecco
Smooth and bubbly, this Prosecco from Veneto, Italy is the prefect sparkling wine for your cocktail. Flavors of white peach and honey with a touch of green apple make for a bright and refreshing mimosa.
Best Sparkling Wine: Jacqueline Leonne Brut
You might not think of New Mexico when you hear sparkling wine, but Jacqueline Leonne Brut is an excellent option. If you love the toasty and nutty qualities of Champagne, this sparkling wine is for you. Layers of citrus flavors, apple, and a bit of spice make this wine excellent in a mimosa.
Best Champagne: Montaudon Brut
If you are celebrating something special and want to splurge a bit, Montaudon Brut is an excellent wine to use in your mimosa. This vibrant and balanced Champagne features flavors of white peach, candied berry, lemon zest, and a bit of almond.
Best Value: Rondel Brut Cava
Our last pick for best value goes to another delicious Cava from Spain, Rondel Brut. This Cava is crisp and fruity featuring flavors of peach and nuts with white floral aromas. It’s a great option if you’re hosting a party or catching up with friends over brunch.
Looking for more recipes? Check out all our sparkling wines recipes, including our Caramel Apple Mimosa and Christmas Mimosa.
