Grand Mimosa

The Grand Mimosa elevates the simple two-ingredient brunch classic by introducing a splash of Grand Marnier, a cognac-based orange liqueur. This addition provides a richer orange flavor, a touch of sweetness, and a subtle warmth from the brandy base. It transforms the light and fruity original into a more complex and sophisticated sparkling cocktail. The result is a perfectly balanced, effervescent drink ideal for celebrations or a luxurious weekend brunch.
Grand Mimosa

Preparation

Preparation time: 2 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

The Grand Mimosa is classified as a sparkling cocktail due to its champagne or prosecco base. It is most famously categorized as a brunch cocktail, being a popular and elegant choice for morning and early afternoon gatherings. Its simple composition also places it within the broader category of classic cocktail variations.

Serving

Served cold without ice in a chilled Champagne flute to maintain its effervescence and temperature. It is a light to moderately alcoholic drink, perfect for daytime enjoyment.
Serving size
Approximately 150 ml / 5 oz
Alcohol content
Approximately 10-13% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Champagne flute
Glass treatment
Chilled glass

Backstory

The Grand Mimosa is a modern variation of the classic Mimosa, which itself dates back to the 1920s at the Hôtel Ritz Paris. This specific twist likely arose as bartenders and home mixologists sought to enhance the simple formula of sparkling wine and orange juice. Grand Marnier, with its complementary orange and cognac notes, became a natural and popular choice to add sophistication and depth, solidifying the "Grand" Mimosa's place as an intuitive evolution of a beloved classic.
Origin
The Grand Mimosa is a modern variation of the original French Mimosa, with no single credited inventor. It likely emerged in the late 20th century in Europe or the United States as a popular way to upgrade the classic brunch drink.

Grand Mimosa

The name "Grand Mimosa" clearly communicates its composition as a classic Mimosa cocktail that has been made "grand" or more luxurious with the addition of Grand Marnier orange liqueur. An alternative name like "Grand Orange Mimosa" further emphasizes the enhanced orange flavor profile.
Original name
Grand Mimosa
Alternative name
Grand Orange Mimosa

Characteristics overview

This is a highly refreshing and bubbly drink with a dominant flavor and aroma of fresh orange, enhanced by the sophisticated warmth of Grand Marnier. Its light body and crisp finish make it an effervescent and celebratory experience.
Flavor
Orange, Citrus, Bubbly, Lightly sweet, Sophisticated, Cognac undertones
Aroma
Fresh orange, Sparkling wine, Hint of cognac, Floral notes
Taste balance
Sweet, Sour
Aftertaste
Clean, Crisp, Lingering orange, Gentle warmth
Fizziness
Effervescent, Bubbly, Lively
Color appearance
Bright orange, Translucent, Sparkling
Texture
Light-bodied, Bubbly, Smooth
Seasonality
Refreshing, All-season, Festive

Flavor intensity & Experience

The Grand Mimosa presents a moderate flavor intensity, characterized by its prominent fruitiness, gentle sweetness, and high carbonation. The alcohol presence is light, making it an easy-drinking and refreshing cocktail.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

This simple yet elegant recipe requires just three core ingredients: a quality sparkling wine, fresh orange juice, and the signature Grand Marnier liqueur. Ensure all ingredients are well-chilled before mixing.
  • Grand Marnier15 ml / 0.5 oz
    This cognac-based orange liqueur is key to the drink's signature flavor.
  • Orange Juice60 ml / 2 oz
    Freshly squeezed, chilled, and pulp-free is highly recommended for the best taste and texture.
  • Sparkling Wine75 ml / 2.5 oz
    Use a dry (Brut) chilled Champagne, Prosecco, or Cava.

Ice type

  • None

Mixing equipments

No special mixing equipment like shakers or strainers is required. The cocktail is built directly in the serving glass, making it incredibly simple to prepare.
  • Jigger or measuring cup for accurate pouring.

Instructions

The process is straightforward: chill your glass and ingredients, pour the Grand Marnier and orange juice into the flute, and gently top with sparkling wine. Finish with a simple garnish and serve immediately.
1. Ensure your Champagne flute and all liquid ingredients are well-chilled before you begin.
2. Pour 15 ml (0.5 oz) of Grand Marnier into the chilled Champagne flute.
3. Next, add 60 ml (2 oz) of fresh, chilled orange juice to the flute.
4. Gently top with approximately 75 ml (2.5 oz) of chilled sparkling wine. Pour slowly and at an angle to preserve the bubbles and prevent it from fizzing over.
5. Garnish with a fresh orange twist or a thin orange slice on the rim.
6. Serve immediately while it is cold and bubbly.

Garnishing

A simple garnish of an orange twist or a thin orange slice beautifully complements the drink's citrus notes and adds a touch of visual appeal. The garnish should be prepared just before serving.
  • Orange Twist or Slice, placed on the rim of the glass or dropped inside.

Dietary Information

This cocktail is typically caffeine-free, dairy-free, and gluten-free. While vegetarian, vegans should verify the fining agents used in the sparkling wine, as some are not vegan-friendly.
✓ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✕ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

Per serving, this cocktail contains a relatively low to moderate amount of calories. Most of the carbohydrates and sugar come from the orange juice and the Grand Marnier liqueur.
Calories
Averagely 130-150 kcal / 544-628 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Averagely 10-12 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Averagely 9-11 g
Sugar level

Occasions

This cocktail is perfectly suited for brunch, where it has become a staple. It's also an excellent choice for any celebration, from wedding toasts to holiday gatherings like Christmas or New Year's Eve, thanks to its festive and elegant character.
  • Brunch
  • Celebrations
  • Weddings
  • New Year's Eve
  • Holidays

Pairing suggestions

The Grand Mimosa pairs exceptionally well with a wide array of classic brunch foods, from savory egg dishes to sweet pastries. Its acidity and sweetness also cut through the richness of cheeses and complement the saltiness of light appetizers, making it a versatile choice for entertaining.
  • Brunch dishes like eggs Benedict, quiche, or French toast.
  • Light pastries, croissants, and scones.
  • Fresh fruit platters and cheese boards.
  • Salty appetizers and canapés.

The Grand Mimosa: A Touch of Elegance for Your Brunch

The Grand Mimosa is a sophisticated and easy-to-make upgrade to the classic brunch cocktail. By adding a measure of Grand Marnier, it gains a richer depth of orange flavor and a hint of cognac's warmth, beautifully complementing the fresh juice and crisp sparkling wine. It requires no special equipment and is built directly in the glass, making it accessible for any occasion. It's the perfect effervescent drink for celebrations, holidays, or simply elevating a weekend brunch into something more special.

Similar Cocktails

Mimosa

The original classic, made with only sparkling wine and orange juice, without the Grand Marnier.

Bellini

A similar Italian sparkling cocktail made with Prosecco and white peach purée instead of orange juice.

Kir Royale

A French classic made with Champagne and crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur) instead of orange juice and liqueur.

Rossini

Another Italian sparkling cocktail, made with Prosecco and puréed strawberries.

You May Also Like

Black and Tan

A visually striking layered beer drink made by floating a dark stout over a pale ale.

Rum and Tonic

A crisp, refreshing, and surprisingly complex highball that pairs the sweetness of rum with the bitter quinine of tonic water.

Absinthe Frappé

A bracingly cold and refreshing classic cocktail that showcases the complex herbal notes of absinthe in a light, approachable way.

Hanky Panky

A sophisticated gin cocktail with sweet vermouth and a bold, bitter dash of Fernet-Branca.

Have You Tried These Yet?

Yellow Parrot Cocktail

A vibrant, herbal, and subtly sweet pre-Prohibition cocktail featuring Yellow Chartreuse, apricot liqueur, and a hint of absinthe.

Tequila Mockingbird

A refreshingly tart and minty tequila sour with a vibrant green hue and a clever literary name.

Gargoyle Cocktail

A sophisticated and warming Scotch sour balanced with the spicy kick of ginger liqueur and the brightness of fresh lime.

Brandy Smash

A refreshing and aromatic classic cocktail featuring brandy, muddled mint, sugar, and crushed ice.