Popular Champagne Cocktails

Bellini in Champagne flute with peach slice

Champagne shines as more than just a celebratory sipper—it transforms cocktails with its lively bubbles and crisp acidity. Classics like the Mimosa and French 75 leverage sparkling wine’s freshness to create festive, balanced drinks, but the list stretches far beyond these two favorites.

Timeless Champagne Cocktail Recipes

Mimosa – equal parts Champagne and fresh orange juice, usually served in a flute. Brunch mainstay with a bright, refreshing character.
French 75 – 30 ml gin, 15 ml fresh lemon juice, 10 ml simple syrup, topped with 60 ml Champagne. Served over ice or up, finished with a lemon twist for extra zest.
Classic Champagne Cocktail – sugar cube soaked in 2 ml Angostura bitters, topped with 90 ml Champagne, finished with a twist of lemon peel. Simple and elegant.
Bellini – 30 ml white peach purée topped with about 90 ml Champagne, offering a floral, fruity take perfect for warm weather.
Kir Royale – 10 ml crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur) layered with 90 ml Champagne for a deep berry note and beautiful color.

How Champagne Elevates Cocktails

Champagne contributes effervescence, lifting the flavors of spirits and juices while lightening richer liqueurs. Its acidity also balances sweetness, especially in fruit-forward drinks and iconic brunch cocktails. Sparkling wine can substitute for Champagne in these recipes but may offer different nuances—Champagne typically brings pronounced minerality and toasty notes.

Serving Tips for Champagne Cocktails

Chill all ingredients and glassware to preserve carbonation and aroma.
Top with Champagne gently to avoid foam overflow and retain the bubbles.
Twist peels over the glass to release citrus oils, then use as garnish for added aroma.
When using juices or purées, strain for a smoother finish and better integration with Champagne.

Classic Champagne cocktail with lemon peel

From brunch to evening celebrations, these Champagne cocktails offer a combination of lively fizz, flavor diversity, and elegant presentation—showcasing why sparkling wine anchors so many beloved classic drinks.