5 Classy Champagne Cocktails For Festive Gatherings

A French 75 is the sort of cocktail that makes an entrance without making desperate attempts for attention. Gin, lemon juice, and sugar syrup are shaken together before being topped with Champagne, concocting a bright and crisp drink with a subtly boozy backbone. Garnish with a long lemon twist for that effortlessly Parisian finish.

Deeply ruby in tone and wonderfully simple yet festive, a Kir Royale needs little more than crème de cassis and chilled Champagne. The blackcurrant liqueur imbues the classy bubbly with a luscious berry sweetness without making the latter feel heavy. Finally, add a single blackcurrant or raspberry to your glass and let the colour do the talking.

Born at Harry's Bar in Venice, the Bellini pairs sparkling wine with white peach purée for a summery classic. Its pale blush colour and fragrant peach flavour make it particularly ideal for leisurely festive lunches and brunches, even in autumn. Use ripe, fragrant peaches rather than an excessively sweet bottled purée whenever possible.

The Mimosa needs no introduction as a cocktail. Champagne and orange juice have made this one of the world's most recognisable brunch drinks. Freshly squeezed orange elixir gives the cocktail a sharper, more vibrant character than any carton juice, while the bubbles keep the drink wonderfully lively and celebratory. Serve thoroughly chilled and keep the proportions balanced so the Champagne does not disappear.

Champagne and stout may sound like an odd culinary couple, but the Black Velvet has been around since the 19th century. The stout sinks into the sparkling wine to create a dramatic dark, and mysteriously creamy-looking drink with an unexpectedly roasted and bittersweet depth. It is an excellent choice for when you want something festive but quirky that nobody at the table is expecting.