Christmas Mimosa

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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.

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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.

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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!"

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Recipe

This cocktail recipe was adapted from Total Wine.