WINE & SPIRITS

Champagne Cocktails 101

Your guide to creating the perfect cocktail with that bubbly, boozy beverage that we’re all into right now.

By Lyndsay Fogarty

What’s more refreshing than an ice-cold cocktail? One with some bubbly in it. Lucky for all of us, Champagne cocktails are in.

I’m not talking about mimosas here, although the brunch staple is the OG Champagne cocktail. I’m referring more to the French 75s and the Aperol Spritzes of the world.

The beauty of champagne, or sparkling wine, cocktails is that they can be as low key or as high maintenance as you want them to be. And if you don’t have Champagne on hand, any sparkling wine will do. It’s all about your personal preference.

When it comes to champagne cocktails, keep in mind that simplicity is key. Find ingredients that complement each other and go with it.

That means fresh juices, herbs and fragrant garnishes that will enhance both the taste and the presentation of your cocktail. Consider the notes of the sparkling wine you’re using or what type of additional liquor you’re including before you decide on the other ingredients. Herbs like basil or rosemary will seriously complement your cocktail if you’re adding gin, or consider a wedge of lemon or lime for a garnish (add in the juice if you wish) when you want to balance out a sweeter wine.

Of course, your champagne cocktail doesn’t have to include an additional liquor, but if you choose to go for it, vodka is the most common addition. This could be because it’s essentially a blank canvas when not flavored. Grand Marnier is also a popular enhancement.

Not sure what type of bubbly you should use? Prosecco and non-vintage Champagnes work well with the majority of these cocktails. This is because they’re light, mild and refreshing.

Finally, whether you’re using a wine glass or a Champagne flute, go big with the glassware to dress up your champagne cocktails. Essentially, this is the canvas to your delicious work of art.

Raspberry Lime Champagne Punch

Courtesy of The Vineyard Wine Bar & Healthy Bistro

This Champagne cocktail recipe is quick and easy to put together, as you likely have all of the ingredients on hand already.

Ingredients:

- 1/3 cup sugar - 1/3 cup water - 3/4 cup lime juice, preferably freshly squeezed - 2 cups tonic water - 2 cups raspberries - 1 lime, sliced - 1 bottle Champagne or sparkling white wine - 1/4 cup vodka, optional

Directions:

To prepare simple syrup, heat water to boiling and add sugar. Let cool. In a large pitcher, combine simple syrup, lime juice, tonic water and raspberries. Add optional vodka if you prefer. Pour Champagne or sparkling wine (Prosecco preferable) over mixture and serve. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or orange slice, if preferred.

LOSE THE STEM. KEEP THE COOL.

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