
Mimosa Alcohol Percentage: 7–12%
There’s something about a Mimosa that just screams brunch. Light, bubbly, refreshing, and easy to drink, this citrusy cocktail is a weekend favorite around the world. Whether you’re clinking glasses at a bridal shower, easing into a sunny Sunday morning, or celebrating a holiday brunch, the Mimosa delivers the perfect balance of elegance and refreshment.
But many Mimosa lovers pause for a moment and ask—how strong is a Mimosa?
The answer: a Mimosa typically contains between 7% and 12% alcohol by volume (ABV). That makes it lighter than many cocktails but still enough to give you a gentle buzz—especially when you’re sipping more than one.
In this article, we’ll explore everything from classic Mimosa recipes to fruity variations and even non-alcoholic options. We’ll break down the alcohol content, serving tips, and how to tailor your Mimosa to your taste.
🥂 What Is a Mimosa?
A Mimosa is a simple cocktail made with equal parts sparkling wine (like Champagne) and orange juice. It’s been a brunch staple for decades, partly because it’s delicious, and partly because it feels fancy without being too strong.
The typical Mimosa recipe is:
3 oz Champagne or Prosecco (about 12% ABV)
3 oz orange juice (0% ABV)
The average ABV of the drink becomes around 6–7%, depending on how much bubbly you use. If you increase the Champagne-to-juice ratio (as many people do), the alcohol percentage can go as high as 12%, almost like drinking straight sparkling wine.
🍊 Alcohol Content in Traditional Mimosa
The classic Mimosa is typically made using:
Champagne (12% ABV)
Fresh-squeezed orange juice (0% ABV)
If mixed evenly, the drink lands at about 6% ABV. But many brunch restaurants pour a little heavier on the Champagne, nudging the alcohol level closer to 8–9%.
You can also use:
Prosecco (11%) – for a sweeter, lighter taste
Cava (11.5–12%) – for a dry, crisp version
Sparkling Moscato (5–8%) – for a sweet, lower-alcohol Mimosa
🍍 Mimosa Variations and Their Alcohol Content
Looking to switch up your citrus? There are many Mimosa variations that use different juices and sparkling wines. Here’s a breakdown of popular types and their typical alcohol percentages:
1. Tropical Mimosa
Mixer: Pineapple juice
ABV: 7–12%
Sweeter and more exotic, this version adds a vacation vibe to your brunch.
2. Berry Mimosa
Mixer: Cranberry juice or raspberry puree
ABV: 7–12%
Tart and colorful, this one’s often seen during the holidays.
3. Grapefruit Mimosa
Mixer: Grapefruit juice
ABV: 7–12%
A bit more bitter and tangy; great with a dry sparkling wine.
4. Pomegranate Mimosa
Mixer: Pomegranate juice
ABV: 7–12%
Deep red, festive, and full of antioxidants—what’s not to love?
5. Peach Mimosa (Bellini)
Mixer: Peach puree
Base: Prosecco or sparkling wine
ABV: 7–12%
Technically a Bellini, but it falls in the Mimosa family. Smooth and slightly floral.
6. Apple Cider Mimosa
Mixer: Apple cider
ABV: 7–12%
Perfect for fall! The apple flavor blends beautifully with sparkling wine for a crisp seasonal twist.
All of these drinks hover in the 7–12% ABV range, depending on how they’re mixed.
🍹 Non-Alcoholic Mimosa (0% ABV)
Not drinking? No problem. You can easily make a non-alcoholic Mimosa that looks and feels just as special.
Ingredients:
Non-alcoholic sparkling wine or sparkling water
Fresh orange juice (or any juice variant)
This version contains 0% alcohol, making it safe for pregnant guests, kids, or anyone avoiding alcohol for health or personal reasons.
Pro tip: Use a quality non-alcoholic sparkling wine to get closer to the real flavor.
🧮 How to Adjust the Alcohol Content
The alcohol content in a Mimosa comes down to how much wine you use compared to juice.
Here’s a quick guide:
Ratio (Wine:Juice) | Approximate ABV |
---|---|
1:1 (equal parts) | ~6–7% ABV |
2:1 (more wine) | ~9–10% ABV |
3:1 (strong pour) | ~11–12% ABV |
So, if you’re drinking Mimosas at brunch and they feel a bit stronger than expected, it might be because the bartender used a heavier hand with the bubbly.
🍾 Best Sparkling Wines for Mimosas
You don’t need a $60 bottle of Champagne to make a good Mimosa. In fact, most people prefer using Prosecco or Cava because they’re more affordable and pair better with juice.
Best Picks:
Prosecco – slightly sweet, floral, and around 11% ABV
Cava – dry, balanced, and crisp (11.5–12%)
Sparkling Moscato – sweet and lower in alcohol (5–7%)
Brut Champagne – dry and high-end (12–12.5%)
Stick to “Brut” or “Extra Dry” labels for balance. You want a wine that can hold its own against the sweetness of juice.
🥂 Serving Tips and Glassware
A classic Mimosa is usually served in a champagne flute, but it’s not a strict rule.
Serving Sizes:
Flute: 150ml (5 oz)
Wine glass: 180–240ml (6–8 oz)
Pitcher (for groups): 1–1.5 liters
Always serve chilled. No ice needed—cold sparkling wine and chilled juice do the trick. Garnish with a slice of orange or a few berries if you’re feeling festive.
🧊 Brunch Pairings
Wondering what to serve with your Mimosa? Because of its citrus-forward and effervescent profile, it pairs beautifully with:
Eggs Benedict or omelets
Avocado toast
Smoked salmon or bagels with cream cheese
Fresh fruit and yogurt
French toast or pancakes
The acidity helps cut through rich foods, while the bubbles refresh your palate.
🧠 Is a Mimosa Healthier Than Other Cocktails?
In moderation, Mimosas can be a lighter cocktail choice, especially compared to sugary mixed drinks or stronger spirits.
A single 5 oz Mimosa has about:
75–100 calories
6–9% alcohol
Vitamin C (thanks to the juice!)
But be careful—because they go down so easily, it’s easy to overindulge. A few Mimosas during brunch can add up quickly.
🥳 When to Serve Mimosas
There’s never a wrong time for a Mimosa, but here are the most popular occasions:
Weekend brunch
Mother’s Day or Easter morning
Bridal and baby showers
Graduation parties
New Year’s Day breakfast
Weddings and brunch receptions
Make a Mimosa bar with several juice options (pineapple, cranberry, grapefruit, etc.) and let guests mix their own. It’s always a hit!
🧾 Final Thoughts: A Bubbly Drink with Balanced Alcohol
The Mimosa’s alcohol percentage (7–12%) puts it right between a light beer and a glass of wine. It’s light enough to enjoy early in the day but strong enough to be celebratory. That’s why it remains a brunch favorite year after year.
Whether you enjoy the classic orange version, prefer a peachy Bellini, or explore a pomegranate twist, there’s a Mimosa for every palate.
Just remember: the more Champagne you pour, the stronger the buzz. 🍾
Cheers to sunshine, good food, and the perfect glass of Mimosa!