Celebrations call for something special to commemorate the occasion. Champagne is the usual choice and for good reason: champagne itself is something to be celebrated. True champagne is produced in the Champagne region of France, where local laws protect where and how it’s made; branding it as the only sparkling wine labeled ‘champagne’. Similar beverages not made in this particular region are labeled as ‘sparkling wines’.
Champagne is produced primarily with three grapes, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Sparkling wines, on the other hand, are produced all over the world with a variety of grapes. Two types of sparkling wines you may be familiar with are Prosecco from Italy and Cava from Spain. So, as you can see celebrations truly are special when ‘champagne’ is the beverage of choice.
And what better time for celebration than the coming together of friends and family at the holidays…especially to ring in the new year. Today is not only New Year’s Eve but also #NationalChampagneDay, and as such, we’re excited to share some personal recipes of Escoffier Chef Instructor, and Level II sommelier, Greg Bonath. While he recommends champagne in these festive cocktails, he does offer sparkling wines as an alternative.
“Champagne is thought of as a celebration drink, but why not celebrate all time? More and more bars, restaurants, and eateries are turning to this classic not only for flight tastings but also to create cocktails. I hope you get to share and indulge in my favorite drink during the holiday season with your loved ones. Cheers!”
Escoffier Lead Chef Instructor Greg Bonath
Poinsettia Cocktail
- 4 ounces Champagne or Sparkling wine (Examples: Prosecco or Cava)
- ½ Ounce Orange Liqueur
- 1 ½ ounce Cranberry Juice
- 1 Sprig of Rosemary (Optional)
- 2 Frozen Cranberries (Optional)
- Champagne Flutes
- Pour Orange Liqueur and Cranberry Juice into Champagne Flute
- Pour Champagne/Sparkling Wine on top
- Top with Rosemary Sprig
To download and print the recipe, click here: Poinsettia Champagne Cocktail.
Click to watch how the Poinsettia Champagne Cocktail is made.
Caramel Apple Mimosa
- ½ ounce Crown Royal Apple
- ½ Ounce Crown Royal Salted Caramel
- 1 ½ Ounce Apple Cider
- 3 Ounces Champagne or Sparkling wine (Examples: Prosecco or Cava)
- Cinnamon Sugar Mix (Optional)
- Champagne Flutes
- Dip Top of Champagne flute into water and then into cinnamon sugar mixture to coat rim
- Pour Crown Royal Apple and Salted caramel into champagne flute
- Pour Apple cider and then Champagne/Sparkling Wine on top
To download and print the recipe, click here: Caramel Apple Mimosa.
Click to watch how the Caramel Apple Mimosa is made.
Today, or tomorrow–New Year’s Day, if you’re looking to toast the new year, you now have two beautiful, bubbly options for an evening cocktail and a brunch buddy. And, if you’re passionate about the world of food and drink, especially wine, check out this article on becoming a sommelier, featuring Chef Greg. Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts can help prepare you for entry into the culinary and hospitality industry. Check out our website to learn more.
If you’re interested in more recipe favorites from Escoffier chef instructors, check out these articles:
- Auguste Escoffier’s Classic Dessert: Cherries Jubilee
- Mother’s Day Recipes Hand Crafted by Escoffier Chef Instructors
- Ring in the Holidays with These Escoffier Chef Inspired Recipes
Cheers!