Strawberry Ginger Champagne Cocktail

There’s something about a cocktail that not only tastes divine but also looks stunning in the glass. The Strawberry Ginger Champagne Cocktail brings together the best of both worlds—vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation. When I was thinking about how to craft this drink, I knew I wanted something that would not only be refreshing but also have a rich, warm undertone. That’s where the idea of using brown sugar in the syrup came in. It adds a slightly nutty flavor and a beautiful depth of color that perfectly complements the strawberries and ginger.

The muddled strawberries provide a burst of fresh, fruity flavor as well as the vibrant red color. Meanwhile, the brown sugar ginger syrup brings a warmth that’s both spicy and sweet, tying all the elements together. The final touch of champagne adds effervescence, lifting the flavors and creating a sophisticated yet approachable cocktail. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a well-deserved treat, this cocktail is sure to make the moment feel just a little bit more luxurious.

Ingredients:

  • 4-5 fresh strawberries, hulled
  • 1 oz brown sugar ginger simple syrup (recipe below)
  • Champagne or sparkling wine
  • Ice (optional)

For the Brown Sugar Ginger Simple Syrup:

  • 1/2 cup fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup water

Method:

  1. Make the Ginger Syrup:
    In a small saucepan, combine the sliced ginger, brown sugar, and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. Once dissolved, remove the saucepan from heat and let the syrup infuse for about an hour. Strain out the ginger slices, and set the syrup aside to cool.

  2. Muddle the Strawberries:
    In a cocktail glass, muddle the sliced strawberries until they release their juices and create a rich base. If you prefer a smoother drink, you can strain the muddled strawberries through a fine mesh sieve to remove the pulp before adding the other ingredients.

  3. Add the Ginger Syrup:
    Pour 1 oz of the brown sugar ginger syrup over the muddled (or strained) strawberries. Stir gently to combine the flavors.

  4. Top with Champagne:
    Slowly pour champagne over the strawberry and syrup mixture, filling the glass. The champagne will mix with the strawberry juice and syrup, creating a beautiful, bubbly drink.

  5. Serve:
    Serve the cocktail immediately. If you prefer a chilled drink, you can add a few ice cubes to the glass before pouring the champagne. Garnish with a fresh strawberry or a slice of candied ginger for an extra touch.

This cocktail is more than just a drink; it’s an experience. The combination of fresh strawberries, the warm, nutty flavor of brown sugar, and the zing of ginger creates a layered, refreshing sip that’s perfect for any occasion. The vibrant red color and sparkling champagne make it as visually appealing as it is delicious, ensuring it will be the highlight of any gathering.