Italian Cocktails

Mimosa Italiana

The short answer

The Mimosa Italiana is a vibrant brunch cocktail that uses Sicilian blood orange juice and Italian Prosecco. It offers a deeper color and a more complex, tart flavor than the standard orange juice version.

Style
Blood orange and Prosecco, 9% ABV
Glass
Champagne flute
Strength
Approximately 8% to 11%

Where it comes from

While the classic Mimosa is widely associated with 1920s Paris, the Italian version celebrates the seasonal blood oranges of regions like Sicily. It has become a popular feature of Mediterranean-style brunch service.

What you need

  • 60 ml (2 oz) Chilled blood orange juice
  • 90 ml (3 oz) Chilled Prosecco
  • Blood orange slice for garnish

How Larry builds it

  1. 01

    Prepare Juice. Pour the chilled blood orange juice into a Champagne flute. If using fresh oranges, strain out any excess pulp.

  2. 02

    Top with Wine. Slowly pour the chilled Prosecco over the juice, tilting the glass to preserve carbonation and allow the layers to mix gently.

  3. 03

    Garnish and Serve. Garnish with a thin slice of blood orange on the rim and serve immediately while cold.

Larry’s rule: Brunch, but Sicilian.

Variations worth making

  • Rossini

    Uses strawberry purée instead of blood orange juice for a sweeter, thicker consistency with Prosecco.

  • Puccini

    A variation made with mandarin juice and Prosecco, offering a more delicate and aromatic citrus profile.

Questions people ask

What is the best Prosecco to use?

A 'Brut' or 'Extra Dry' Prosecco works best to balance the sweetness of the juice and ensure the drink is crisp and refreshing.

When are blood oranges in season?

Blood oranges are typically a winter citrus, with peak season generally running from December through May.

Can I use regular orange juice?

You can, but the result would be a standard Mimosa. The use of blood orange juice is what defines the Mimosa Italiana.

Should I add ice?

No, Mimosas are served without ice. Ensure both the juice and the sparkling wine are thoroughly chilled before mixing.

What to eat with it

Mix it like Larry

The shakers, jiggers and glasses behind this drink.

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Order Mimosa Italiana with sausage and peppers at the spots on Larry’s lists:

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Quoting or citing this drink? Credit “Uncle Larry Adventures” and link to https://unclelarryadventures.com/beverages/mimosa-italiana.

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