Champagne is often considered an indulgence, especially given its price point, and we’ve grown accustomed to popping a cork only on special occasions. While that’s well and good, and certainly something to hold onto, these cocktails are here to take Champagne and all things sparkling to the next level.
With a bit of spirited inspiration, let’s explore sprightly flavor combinations and irresistible elegance with some of VinePair’s most popular Champagne cocktails.
The Champagne Cocktail Recipe
If there are two things in life you can trust, it’s Champagne and history. And this cocktail recipe has both. First published in 1862, the recipe uses traditional Angostura bitters, but to give it a personalized twist, try it with any preferred flavored bitters, such as orange or grapefruit.
The CLASSIC CHAMPAGNE COCKTAIL WITH A CITRUS TWIST RECIPE
Adding three types of citrus sets this classic Champagne recipe apart. It rings familiar to a Mimosa at brunch, but the touch of sweetness from sugarcubes, plus bitters and fresh fruit aromatics, bring it to new heights.
The FRENCH 75 RECIPE
In spite of travel being limited these days, sipping on a classic like the French 75 instantaneously makes us feel like we’re in Paris. Experiment by using a gin with citrus botanicals to match the lemon twist garnish.
The MIXED BERRY SPARKLING LEMONADE RECIPE
Who says you can’t meet your daily fruit intake goals during happy hour? This mixed berry concoction is a showstopper any time of year. Not only is this Champagne cocktail easy to prepare in advance, it also requires only a few ingredients, including a refreshing splash of lemonade and vodka to finish.
The SPARKLING PISCO COBBLER RECIPE
This cocktail is the perfect excuse to add pisco to your bar cart. Layers of sweet and sour flavors, plus fresh and bittered aromatics, lay the groundwork for this elegant creation. Experiment with Peruvian pisco (aged in stainless steel or glass) versus Chilean pisco, which can be aged in wood, for subtle differences in expression.
The SPARKLING RASPBERRY ROYAL
Mimosas will blush with this jam-infused sparkling cocktail at the brunch table. Shaking sweet raspberry jam with a touch of refreshing citrus brings balance to this effervescent medley. Add fresh raspberries to garnish.
The BARREL-AGED MANDARIN 75 RECIPE
Think a French 75 can’t be topped? Think again. This version uses barrel-aged gin to add layers of complexity and boldness. And instead of simple syrup, a dash of mandarin juice brings the citrus component to a heightened level of zest. The result is refreshing and distinguished, with just the right amount of Champagne spritz.