Simple New Year's Cocktail Recipe: Classic Champagne Cocktail

classic champagne cocktail in flute with lemon twist

Celebrating New Year's at home calls for a cocktail that's both festive and truly easy to craft. The Classic Champagne Cocktail checks both boxes: minimal ingredients, timeless appeal, and a celebratory sparkle that elevates even a cozy evening in.

What You Need for a Classic Champagne Cocktail

1 sugar cube (or 5 ml simple syrup as a substitute)
3 ml Angostura bitters
120 ml chilled Champagne or dry sparkling wine
Lemon peel (for garnish)

How to Make the Cocktail at Home

Place the sugar cube in the bottom of a Champagne flute.
Saturate the sugar with 3 ml Angostura bitters.
Fill the glass carefully with 120 ml chilled Champagne.
Gently twist a lemon peel over the drink to release the oils, then drop it in as garnish.

Tips for a Perfect New Year's Toast

Use dry sparkling wine or real Champagne for the best result, but Prosecco or Cava work well.
Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the cocktail refreshing.
Add the Champagne slowly to preserve the bubbles and avoid over-foaming.

Why This Classic Cocktail Shines at Home

With only a handful of ingredients and no special technique required, the Classic Champagne Cocktail is perfect for home celebrations. The sugar and bitters mellow the bubbly just enough, while the lemon twist adds a festive zing. It sets the mood for midnight toasts and pairs easily with party snacks or sweet treats.