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Cocktail History
The Christmas Mimosa is a Christmas cocktail that was created by Total Wine, the largest independent retailer of fine wine and spirits in the United States. This version puts a seasonal twist on the classic Mimosa by swapping out the usual orange juice for tart cranberry juice, giving it a vibrant red hue and a tangy flavor that’s perfect for the holidays. The recipe keeps the sparkling wine base to provide that signature effervescence, while a hint of citrus liqueur adds depth and complexity, elevating the drink’s festive flair. With its refreshing, slightly tart taste and cheerful color, this holiday Mimosa is a simple yet sophisticated choice for holiday brunches or toasting to the season.
Cocktail Ingredients
To make this cocktail, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Sparkling Wine: This is a type of wine made with white or red grapes and infused with carbon dioxide. I used Villa Bellezza Winery Brillante.
Cranberry Juice: This is a tart, bright red juice made with cranberries. I used Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice.
Orange Curaçao: This is a liqueur made with oranges, sugar, and brandy or rum. I used Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge.
Cranberries: This is a small red berry native to North America that’s known for its vibrant color and slightly bitter flavor.
Rosemary: This is an aromatic evergreen herb with needle-like leaves and a robust, piney, and slightly peppery flavor.
Bartending Tools
To make this cocktail, you’ll need the following bar tools:
Bar Mat: This is a rubber or silicone mat that’s placed on the bar surface to catch spills, provide grip for glasses and tools, and keep the workspace clean and organized. I used the Highball & Chaser 18×12 Bar Mat.
Jigger: This is a small, double-sided measuring tool that’s used to accurately portion spirits and mixers, typically with one side measuring 1 oz and the other 1.5 or 2 oz. I used the Japanese jigger from the A Bar Above 14-Piece Silver Bar Set.
Cocktail Pick: This is a small, slender tool that’s used to skewer cocktail garnishes. I used one from the I-MART Gold Stainless Steel Cocktail Pick Set.
Champagne Glass: This is a tall, narrow glass that has a slender bowl and long stem to preserve carbonation and concentrate aromas. I used a thrifted champagne glass.
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Tasting Notes
This cocktail has the following flavor profile:
• Appearance: Bright pink-ish red hue
• Aroma: Woodsy rosemary and berry
• Taste: An effervescent wine flavor accented with tart cranberry
• Finish: Spiced orange
Kendall’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Kendall’s Take: “I was a little skeptical that this would even taste like a classic Mimosa given there’s no orange juice, but the addition of the orange liqueur still gives it a noticeable citrus flavor. I have to say, I think I like this Christmas version even better than the original too. Its use of cranberry juice in place of orange really lets the sparkling wine flavor come through a lot more, and I really loved that about it. I will 100% be enjoying a Christmas Mimosa at brunch on Christmas morning this year!”
Recipe
This cocktail recipe was adapted from Total Wine.
Christmas Mimosa
The Christmas Mimosa is a holiday cocktail that was created by Total Wine, the largest independent retailer of fine wine and spirits in the United States. Meant to be a Christmas-inspired twist on the classic Mimosa, the recipe calls for sparkling wine and hint of citrus liqueur but replaces the orange juice with tart cranberry for more festive flair.
Ingredients
Method
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Add cranberry juice and orange curaçao to a champagne glass.
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Top with sparkling wine.
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Garnish with cranberries and rosemary sprig.
