The Grand Mimosa

Elevate your next brunch with a truly magnificent cocktail! These Grand Marnier Mimosas seamlessly blend the bright effervescence of sparkling wine with the zesty sweetness of freshly squeezed orange juice, enhanced by an optional, yet highly recommended, splash of premium Grand Marnier. Perfect for any special occasion, from intimate Sunday brunches with friends to festive holiday gatherings, this recipe transforms a classic into an unforgettable experience.

If you’ve ever wondered How to Make Mimosas that truly impress, you’ve found your ultimate guide. While the foundational principle of a Mimosa Cocktail remains a delightful union of equal parts orange juice and champagne, we’re diving into how to introduce sophisticated nuances and make your drink truly “Grand.” Get ready to master this timeless brunch staple, enhanced with a luxurious twist.

Grand Mimosas in Viski Glasses in front of a pitcher of mimosas.

Contents

Why Grand Marnier Mimosas are a Must-Try for Your Next Brunch

The mimosa holds a cherished spot in brunch culture, a symbol of relaxed mornings and celebratory gatherings. But why settle for ordinary when you can craft an extraordinary Grand Marnier Mimosa? This recipe isn’t just about mixing ingredients; it’s about creating an experience that stands out. Here’s why this elevated version is an absolute essential for your next event:

Unparalleled Flavor Depth: The secret lies in the quality of your ingredients. Using freshly squeezed orange juice provides a vibrant, natural sweetness and tang that simply cannot be replicated by store-bought concentrate. When you introduce a touch of Grand Marnier, an exquisite orange liqueur, it infuses the cocktail with a nuanced, aromatic complexity and a subtle warmth that elevates it far beyond a standard mimosa. This addition creates a harmonious blend that tantalizes the palate.
Perfect for Special Occasions: A Grand Mimosa Cocktail adds an undeniable touch of elegance and festivity to any celebration. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated wedding shower, a joyful holiday brunch, a Mother’s Day treat, or simply celebrating a milestone with loved ones, these mimosas set a celebratory tone. They’re easy to prepare in batches, making them ideal for entertaining a crowd without stress.
Budget-Friendly Luxury: You might think a “grand” cocktail requires top-shelf spirits and vintage champagne, but that’s far from the truth. One of the best aspects of mimosas is their versatility with sparkling wines. You don’t need to break the bank on high-end champagne! Quality, affordable sparkling wines like Spanish Cava or Italian Prosecco work beautifully, offering crisp bubbles and delightful notes that complement the orange juice and Grand Marnier perfectly. This allows you to achieve a luxurious taste without the hefty price tag.
Enhanced Presentation with Premium Barware: The visual appeal of a cocktail is just as important as its taste. Serving your Grand Mimosas in beautiful glassware instantly elevates the experience. This post is proudly sponsored by Viski, esteemed makers of premium barware known for its stunning design and exceptional quality. Their glasses are more than just vessels; they are statements of style that enhance every sip. We particularly adore their Stemless Martini Glasses, pictured above in a set of four crystal glasses, which offer a modern, sophisticated alternative to traditional flutes. Below the giveaway information, you’ll also see their unique Rolling Glasses, a set of two crystal tumblers perfect for a distinctive presentation. Viski’s exquisite glassware also makes thoughtful and impressive gifts for any occasion.

Indulge yourself and your guests in the simple luxury of a Grand Marnier Mimosa. It’s an easy recipe with a grand impact, promising delightful sips and memorable moments.

Crafting Your Grand Mimosa: Essential Ingredients

Grand Mimosa Ingredients with labels on a sheetpan.

The beauty of a Grand Mimosa lies in its simplicity, requiring just a few high-quality ingredients to achieve a truly remarkable flavor. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of sweetness, acidity, and effervescence. Here’s what you’ll need, along with tips for selecting the best:

Orange Juice: This is the heart of your mimosa, so quality is paramount. For the most exceptional flavor, nothing compares to freshly squeezed orange juice. Valencia oranges are highly recommended for their perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, yielding a brighter, more vibrant juice. If fresh squeezing isn’t an option, opt for a premium, not-from-concentrate orange juice brand from your market. Look for varieties with minimal added sugar and a clear, fresh taste to ensure your mimosa is as delicious as possible.
Champagne or Sparkling Wine: While “champagne” is often used generically, any good quality chilled sparkling wine will work wonderfully. There’s absolutely no need for a high-end, vintage bottle. In fact, a dry or Brut sparkling wine is often preferred to balance the sweetness of the orange juice. Excellent and more affordable alternatives include:
- Cava: A Spanish sparkling wine known for its crispness, often with notes of green apple and citrus.
- Prosecco: An Italian sparkling wine that tends to be fruitier and slightly sweeter than Cava or Champagne, with prominent notes of pear and apple.
Ensure your chosen sparkling wine is well-chilled before mixing for the best effervescence and a refreshing drink.
Grand Marnier (Optional, but Highly Recommended): This is the secret ingredient that transforms a classic mimosa into a “Grand” Mimosa. Grand Marnier is a premium French orange liqueur, a blend of cognacs and distilled essence of bitter oranges. Its rich, complex flavor with hints of vanilla and oak adds a wonderful depth and sophisticated warmth to the cocktail. While optional, a splash makes your drink more potent and distinctly luxurious. Be sure to advise your guests if you’ve added this delightful orange liqueur, as it increases the alcohol content.

Viski Premium Barware Giveaway!

Enhance your home bar with exquisite craftsmanship from Viski! They offer an unparalleled selection of sophisticated barware designed to elevate every drink. To participate in our exclusive giveaway, simply visit the official Viski Website, explore their stunning inventory of crystal glasses, innovative tools, and elegant accessories. Once you’ve browsed their collection, come back here and leave a comment below noting your absolute favorite product. By doing so, you will automatically be entered to win a set of their premium glasses (the specific set will be selected by Viski). This giveaway is a fantastic opportunity to bring professional-grade elegance to your entertaining. Please note, this giveaway is exclusively open to participants with a US mailing address.

Viski’s unique and stunning glassware isn’t just for giveaways; it makes for truly memorable gifts. Imagine celebrating an engagement, a holiday, a housewarming, or any special occasion by gifting these beautifully crafted pieces. Or, treat yourself! You absolutely deserve to sip your favorite cocktails from well-designed, luxurious glassware. As the holidays approach, keep these gorgeous, robustly designed glasses in mind for those discerning friends or family members who are notoriously hard to shop for. They are gifts that combine beauty with practicality, making a lasting impression.

Grand Mimosa in a Viski glass next to a bottle of Grand Marnier.

Expert Tips for Crafting the Perfect Grand Mimosa

The blend of orange juice and sparkling wine has long been a celebratory staple, gracing breakfast and brunch tables for centuries. While seemingly simple, a few expert techniques can elevate your mimosa from good to truly exceptional. Here are invaluable tips to help you master the art of making the best mimosas:

Prioritize Presentation with Quality Glassware: Just like a gourmet meal, a cocktail tastes better when presented beautifully. Serving your mimosas in elegant glasses makes the occasion feel more special and memorable. We highly recommend exploring the Premium Barware from Viski! Their exquisite collection, from classic flutes to modern stemless options, instantly adds a touch of sophistication to your brunch spread.
Orange Juice is Key: While you can be flexible with your choice of sparkling wine, the quality of your orange juice is non-negotiable for a superior mimosa. Freshly squeezed orange juice offers a vibrant, pure flavor that store-bought juice simply cannot match. If champagne isn’t in your budget, rest assured that crisp Cava or fruity Prosecco are excellent, less expensive sparkling wine options that will still yield a fantastic cocktail when paired with stellar orange juice.
Master the Mimosa Ratio: The standard ratio for a classic mimosa is half orange juice and half sparkling wine. This balance allows both flavors to shine without one overpowering the other. However, don’t be afraid to adjust based on your guests’ preferences. You can make them stronger (less juice) or weaker (more juice) to suit individual tastes.
Avoid Stirring for Maximum Fizz: Once you’ve poured the ingredients, resist the urge to stir. The natural effervescence of the sparkling wine will mix the liquids automatically. Stirring will cause the precious bubbles to dissipate quickly, resulting in a flatter, less appealing drink.
PRO-Tip for Pouring Champagne: To minimize fizz overflow and ensure a smooth blend, try this trick: hold a spoon with its underside facing up, directly over the glass as you pour the champagne. Gently pour the sparkling wine over the back of the spoon. This technique helps the champagne glide more smoothly into the orange juice, preserving its bubbles and preventing excessive foam.
Embrace Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: If you’ve never experienced a mimosa made with freshly squeezed orange juice, you’re in for a revelation. The difference in taste, aroma, and vibrancy is truly remarkable. While it requires a bit more effort than opening a carton, especially if you don’t own an electric juicer, it is absolutely worth it for special occasions. Seek out Valencia oranges if possible, as this variety is renowned for producing the best-tasting, perfectly balanced orange juice.
Consider the Grand Marnier Boost: For an extra layer of bliss and sophistication, don’t hesitate to “spike” your mimosas with a tablespoon of Grand Marnier or your preferred orange liqueur. This twist transforms it into a “Grand Mimosa,” adding a wonderful aromatic complexity and a subtle kick. Just remember to enjoy responsibly, especially if you have driving plans.
Serve Chilled: Both the orange juice and the sparkling wine should be well-chilled before mixing. This ensures a refreshingly cool drink and helps maintain the wine’s effervescence.
Garnish for Elegance: A beautiful garnish enhances both the visual appeal and the sensory experience. Simple orange slices, strawberries, or a few raspberries can add a pop of color and freshness.

A grand mimosa cocktail in a glass with a clementine garnish on the rim.

What to Serve with Grand Marnier Mimosas for the Ultimate Brunch

A signature cocktail like these exquisite Grand Mimosas instantly elevates any special occasion, especially holiday brunches or celebratory gatherings. Since you’ll typically have orange juice on hand, adding these to your menu is both simple and impactful. The beauty of brunch is its versatility, allowing you to blend breakfast and lunch favorites seamlessly. Here’s how to plan a memorable spread to complement your dazzling mimosas:

Curate a Balanced Menu: Begin by setting your menu with a diverse range of options. Aim for at least one substantial entree, a couple of delightful side dishes, an array of drinks (beyond mimosas!), and something sweet to conclude the meal, if desired.
Consider Your Guests’ Preferences: Thoughtfully plan for dietary needs and preferences. Do you have gluten-free guests? Vegetarians? Are there children with picky palates? Offering a variety ensures everyone finds something delicious to enjoy. Labeling dishes can also be very helpful.
Embrace Seasonal Flavors: Let the season inspire your menu. For spring events like Mother’s Day or Easter, light and fresh berry and lemon dishes are perfect. Think lemon ricotta pancakes or a vibrant berry fruit salad. For a cozy fall gathering, lean into comforting apple and pumpkin recipes, such as pumpkin spice French toast or apple cinnamon baked oatmeal.
Create an Inviting Beverage Bar: Beyond your Grand Mimosas, set up a comprehensive beverage station. Include a variety of juices (cranberry, grapefruit, apple), milk (dairy and non-dairy options), freshly brewed coffee (with decaf), and a selection of teas. Don’t forget essential accompaniments like cream, various sweeteners (sugar, honey, stevia), and stir sticks or elegant spoons.
Brunch is Boundless: Remember that “brunch” is the wonderful amalgamation of breakfast and lunch, meaning almost any dish is acceptable! Think about the vast selections you find at a restaurant’s brunch buffet. From savory quiches to delicate pastries, hearty casseroles, or even a carved spiral ham with small buns and condiments – the possibilities are endless and exciting.
Casseroles for a Crowd: When entertaining a larger group, casseroles are your best friend. They can often be prepared in advance, saving you time and stress on the day of your event. Consider a decadent French Toast Casserole, a savory Spinach Gruyere Breakfast Strata, or the ever-popular, comforting Funeral Potatoes for a hearty side.
Themed Brunch Fun: Feeling overwhelmed by too many options? Choose a theme! A Tex-Mex or fiesta theme could include breakfast burritos and churros. A sophisticated French theme might feature croissants, delicate tarts, and, of course, plenty of bubbly. Even choosing a color theme, like a vibrant pink or a refreshing green, can guide your menu and decor.
Don’t Forget Healthy Options: Always include some lighter, healthier fare to balance out the richness. A large, colorful fruit salad is a must. For an extra special touch, offer ingredients for guests to assemble their own parfaits with fresh fruit, creamy vanilla yogurt, and crunchy granola.
Garnish Your Cocktails with Flair: The final touch to your specialty cocktail is a beautiful garnish. A simple orange slice works perfectly; for an elegant presentation, cut a slit halfway through the slice to easily rest it on the rim of the glass. A sliced strawberry, nearly cut through from the bottom to the stem, can also gracefully perch on the rim, adding a gorgeous pop of red. Alternatively, float a few fresh raspberries or shimmering pomegranate arils in each Grand Marnier mimosa for a touch of vibrant color and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mimosas

What’s in a Mimosa?

Mimosas are a brilliantly simple cocktail, making them ideal for entertaining with minimal fuss. A stellar mimosa recipe requires just two or three quality ingredients mixed together for an effortlessly elegant drink. The core Mimosa Ingredients include crisp orange juice and sparkling wine or champagne. For those seeking an extra layer of sophistication, a touch of Grand Marnier transforms it into a “Grand Mimosa.” Some creative variations might also include a hint of vodka for added potency or Chambord for a berry twist. To truly elevate the experience, always reserve a fresh orange to slice and garnish your glasses, adding both visual appeal and a burst of citrus aroma. Remember, a bottle of high-end champagne isn’t necessary; more accessible options like Cava or Prosecco work beautifully, especially when paired with freshly squeezed orange juice. A beautiful presentation in elegant glassware is key to making this simple cocktail feel truly special. Cheers!

How Do You Make Mimosas?

Making mimosas is incredibly straightforward, perfect for a stress-free start to your brunch. Follow these simple steps for a perfectly balanced cocktail:
1. For the classic mimosa ratio (equal parts orange juice to champagne), fill each glass about halfway with freshly squeezed orange juice. If you or your guests prefer a less alcoholic drink, adjust this by filling the glass approximately two-thirds full with juice before adding the sparkling wine.
2. Slowly add your chilled champagne or sparkling wine, pouring almost to the top of the glass. Be sure to leave a small amount of space, especially if you plan to add Grand Marnier or a garnish.
3. If desired, carefully add one tablespoon (approximately ½ ounce) of Grand Marnier to each glass. This orange liqueur will subtly blend into the drink, adding its signature complex flavor.
4. Do not stir the mimosa. The sparkling wine’s effervescence will naturally mix the ingredients, and stirring can cause the bubbles to dissipate too quickly, resulting in a flatter drink.
5. Garnish with a fresh orange slice, a few berries, or a lemon twist for an added touch of elegance.

Where Did the Mimosa Originate?

The delightful mimosa cocktail has a fascinating history rooted in the glamorous hospitality scene of the 1920s. Its creation is often attributed to a bartender at the iconic Ritz Hotel in Paris. Around that time, a mixologist combined equal parts vibrant orange juice with sparkling wine, giving birth to the now-famous mimosa. Interestingly, the mimosa is considered a refined evolution of an earlier cocktail, Buck’s Fizz, which was invented in London. Buck’s Fizz, while similar, traditionally featured a larger proportion of champagne to orange juice, making it a bit stronger. The mimosa, with its more balanced ratio, quickly gained popularity for its lighter, more refreshing character, becoming a timeless symbol of brunch and celebration worldwide.

What’s the Difference Between Grand Marnier and Cointreau?

Both Grand Marnier and Cointreau are renowned orange liqueurs, and either would be a delicious addition to a classic Mimosa, enhancing its citrus notes. However, a “Grand Mimosa” specifically refers to the version made with Grand Marnier due to its distinct characteristics. The key differences lie in their base spirits and flavor profiles:
Grand Marnier: This is a brand of curaçao liqueur, made by blending aged cognac with the distilled essence of bitter oranges. This cognac base gives Grand Marnier a richer, deeper, and more complex flavor, often described as sweeter with warm vanilla and oak undertones. It has a luxurious, velvety mouthfeel.
Cointreau: This is a triple sec, which means it’s a type of orange liqueur made from the distillation of sweet and bitter orange peels. Unlike Grand Marnier, it’s alcohol-based (typically neutral grain spirit) rather than cognac-based. Cointreau is generally considered smoother, clearer, and has a more intense, purer orange flavor that is less sweet and more vibrant than Grand Marnier. It offers a cleaner, crisp finish.
While both are excellent, Grand Marnier’s unique blend of cognac and orange essence lends a distinctive depth to the Grand Mimosa, justifying its namesake.

More Brunch & Cocktail Inspiration You May Also Love:

Mimosa Margaritas from Wine and Glue – A fun, spirited twist!
How to Set Up an Easy DIY Mimosa Bar from Garnish with Lemon – Perfect for entertaining a crowd.
Grand Marnier French Toast – A delightful breakfast pairing.
Strawberry Bellinis – A fruity, elegant alternative.
Peach Bellinis – Another classic, refreshing sparkling wine cocktail.
Plus More of my Best Cocktail Recipes – Explore a variety of beverages for every occasion.

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The Recipe:

Grand Marnier Mimosas Recipe

Prep Time
5 minutes

Total Time
5 minutes

Yield
1 serving

The Classic Mimosa elevated with an optional, luxurious splash of Grand Marnier for an unforgettable brunch cocktail.

Ingredients

2 ounces freshly squeezed orange juice (Valencia oranges recommended for best flavor)
2 ounces chilled sparkling wine (Champagne, Cava, or Prosecco work well)
½ ounce Grand Marnier, optional (for a “Grand” Mimosa)

Instructions

Fill each glass about ½ full with freshly squeezed orange juice.
Gently add champagne (or sparkling wine) almost to the top of the glass, leaving a small space for the optional Grand Marnier.
If desired, add one tablespoon (½ ounce) of Grand Marnier to each glass for an enhanced flavor.
Do not stir the mimosa, as this will cause the carbonation to dissipate quickly and reduce the fizz.
Garnish with a fresh orange slice, berries, or other fruit to complete your elegant cocktail.

Notes

While precise measurements are provided, feel free to adjust the orange juice to sparkling wine ratio to your personal preference for strength and sweetness.

For the best results, ensure both your orange juice and sparkling wine are well-chilled before mixing.

Using freshly squeezed orange juice, especially from Valencia oranges, will yield the most flavorful and vibrant mimosas. Don’t forget an extra orange for elegant garnishes!

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