RECIPE

Champagne Mojitos

  • ACTIVE: 20 MIN
  • TOTAL TIME: 45 MIN
  • SERVINGS: 12 Drinks

This puckery drink is prepared with rum and fresh mint like a classic mojito, but New Orleans chef John Besh makes it holiday-worthy by topping it with a splash of Champagne.

  • ACTIVE: 20 MIN
  • TOTAL TIME: 45 MIN
  • SERVINGS: 12 Drinks
  • MAKE-AHEAD

Ingredients

  • Ingredients
    1. 3/4 cup sugar
    2. 3/4 cup water
    3. 1 1/2 cups packed mint leaves, plus 12 mint sprigs, for garnish
    4. 6 limes, cut into wedges
    5. 2 cups light rum
    6. Cracked ice
    7. 3 cups Champagne or sparkling wine

Directions

  1. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water and cook over high heat just until the sugar has dissolved. Let cool to room temperature.
  2. In a large pitcher, combine the sugar syrup with the mint leaves and lime wedges and muddle well with a wooden spoon. Add the rum and stir well. Strain the drink into another pitcher.
  3. Fill tall glasses with cracked ice and pour in the drink, filling them about two-thirds full. Top with Champagne, garnish with the mint sprigs and serve.

Make Ahead

The mojitos can be prepared through Step 2. Refrigerate the mojitos in the pitcher overnight.