Why it Works

• Watermelon juice is the sweet nectar pressed from the meat of a ripe watermelon, and it is packed with the taste and nutrition of the whole fruit. Watermelon juice has enough natural sugar to act as a sweetener, but not enough to overwhelm Champagne's subtle flavors. Mixing watermelon juice into Champagne creates a watermelon mimosa, a twist on the classic orange juice and Champagne mimosa, without the tang of orange juice.

The Right Ingredients

• All Champagne isn't created equal in terms of flavor or composition. When mixing Champagne with watermelon juice, it is best to stay away from brut and instead opt for a lighter-bodied Champagne. Similarly, there are variations to keep in mind when it comes to watermelon juice. If you're purchasing premade watermelon juice, check the ingredient list: watermelon and perhaps some lime juice should be the primary, if not the only, ingredients. It's also possible to make your own watermelon juice; just pulverize the ripe, seedless flesh from a watermelon in a blender until it is liquified. You'll get about five cups of juice from a standard six-pound watermelon.

Tips for Top Cocktails

• The right ratio of juice to Champagne is 1 cup of juice to each 1/2 cup of Champagne. Instead of mixing a large batch, which can dilute the bubbly effect of the Champagne, it's best to divide the watermelon juice among individual serving glasses and then add the Champagne to each glass. If you made your own watermelon juice, run it through a strainer or sieve to remove large pieces of unpleasant pulp. Keep your juice and Champagne chilled until you are ready to serve.

Add a Twist

• Once you have mastered the art of a simple watermelon mimosa, try your hand at some simple additions and twists that up the visual and flavor impact. Freeze some cubes of watermelon beforehand and serve them with the mimosas as watermelon ice cubes. Shaved pieces of watermelon rind will curl and hug the edge of your serving glasses as a classy garnish. If you want a little flavor, boost, crush a few mint leaves and mix them into the mimosa for an added layer of refreshment.