Bucks Fizz is a mixed drink made with equal parts champagne and orange juice. It is typically served in a champagne flute and is often enjoyed as a celebratory drink or as a refreshing cocktail. Bucks Fizz was created in the 1920s and has become popular in many countries around the world. It is also sometimes referred to as a “mimosa,” although the traditional mimosa recipe calls for equal parts champagne and orange juice, while Bucks Fizz uses slightly more orange juice. Some variations of Bucks Fizz also include other ingredients such as grenadine or triple sec for added flavour.
History of Bucks Fizz
It is believed to have been created in the 1920s by a bartender at the Buck’s Club in London, England. The drink gained popularity in the United Kingdom in the 1950s and 1960s, and it has since become popular in many other countries around the world.
Bucks Fizz is often served as a celebratory drink or as a refreshing cocktail. It is typically made by combining equal parts champagne and orange juice in a champagne flute or tall glass, although the proportions can vary depending on personal preference. Some variations of Bucks Fizz also include other ingredients such as grenadine or triple sec for added flavor.
The name “Bucks Fizz” is a registered trademark in the United Kingdom, and it can only be used to describe a drink made with a specific recipe and process. In other countries, the drink is often referred to as a “mimosa,” although the traditional mimosa recipe calls for equal parts champagne and orange juice, while Bucks Fizz uses slightly more orange juice.
Variations of Bucks Fizz
There are many variations of Bucks Fizz that can be made by adding different ingredients or altering the proportions of the champagne and orange juice. Some common variations include:
- Mimosa: A traditional mimosa is made with equal parts champagne and orange juice, while Bucks Fizz typically uses slightly more orange juice.
- Royal Mimosa: This variation includes a splash of grenadine or raspberry liqueur in addition to the champagne and orange juice.
- French Mimosa: This variation includes a splash of Cointreau or other orange liqueur in addition to the champagne and orange juice.
- Peach Mimosa: This variation includes a splash of peach schnapps or peach liqueur in addition to the champagne and orange juice.
- Tropical Mimosa: This variation includes a splash of coconut liqueur or pineapple juice in addition to the champagne and orange juice.
- Berry Mimosa: This variation includes a splash of berry liqueur or pureed berries in addition to the champagne and orange juice.
It’s also possible to customise the proportions of the champagne and orange juice to suit your personal taste. Some people prefer a stronger orange flavour and use less champagne, while others prefer a more balanced drink and use equal parts of both ingredients. Experiment with different variations to find the one that you like best!
Best Champagne for Bucks Fizz
There are many different brands of champagne that can be used to make Bucks Fizz. The best champagne for Bucks Fizz will depend on your personal taste and budget. Here are a few recommendations for high-quality champagne brands that are well-suited for use in Bucks Fizz:
- Moët & Chandon: This iconic champagne brand is known for its luxurious, elegant bubbly. Moët & Chandon’s Brut Impérial is a classic choice for Bucks Fizz.
- Veuve Clicquot: This prestigious champagne house is known for its rich, full-bodied champagnes that are perfect for mixing in cocktails. Veuve Clicquot’s Brut Yellow Label is a great choice for Bucks Fizz.
- Laurent-Perrier: This family-owned champagne house is known for producing high-quality, refined champagnes. Laurent-Perrier’s Brut is a great option for Bucks Fizz.
- Bollinger: This respected champagne house is known for producing full-bodied, complex champagnes that are perfect for mixing in cocktails. Bollinger’s Special Cuvée is a great choice for Bucks Fizz.
When choosing a champagne for Bucks Fizz, it’s important to consider the overall flavour profile of the champagne. Look for a champagne with a balanced, fruity flavour that will complement the orange juice in the drink. Avoid overly sweet or overly dry champagnes, as they may not work as well in the drink.
