This is the drink people expect on New Year’s Eve, and that’s fine. You pour something fizzy, hand it to someone, and the night immediately feels like it’s started. That’s really all you need from a drink at this point.
The nice thing about a Champagne Cocktail is that it doesn’t ask much of you. You don’t need to shake anything or track down special ingredients. If you’ve got a bottle of bubbles open and a few basics on hand, you’re good.
Why This Works on New Year’s Eve
By the time you’re making drinks on New Year’s Eve, you don’t want to be fiddling around. This is quick, it looks right in the glass, and it tastes good without being sweet or heavy. People recognize it, which helps, and it fits the moment without trying to steal the show.
Champagne Cocktail
Ingredients
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 to 4 dashes Angostura bitters
- Champagne
- Raspberry and thyme
Instructions
- Place a sugar cube into a chilled Champagne flute
- Douse with the bitters
- Top up with Champagne
- Watch it fizz away
- Garnish with a fresh raspberry and a bit of thyme
Nutrition
A Simple Variation
If you want to lean a bit more old-school, add half an ounce of cognac before topping with Champagne. It adds a little warmth and depth without changing the character of the drink.
FAQ
Do I have to use Champagne?
No. Prosecco or cava work perfectly well here, and most people actually prefer them.
Can I make this ahead of time?
No — but that’s fine. It’s meant to be poured in the moment, glass by glass.
Flute or coupe?
Both work. Flutes keep bubbles longer. Coupes feel more relaxed. Pick the vibe you want.
Why Lush Life Loves It
Because it does what a New Year’s drink is supposed to do: it feels a bit special, it takes almost no effort, and it doesn’t leave you with a sugar hangover before midnight. The bitters keep it grown-up, the bubbles do the celebrating for you, and you can make one for yourself (or a whole group) without turning the kitchen into a cocktail station.