Sparkling Blood Orange Brunch Cocktail

Featuring Sterling California Brut

Brunch calls for something bright, festive, and effortlessly elegant. This Sparkling Blood Orange Brunch Cocktail combines fresh citrus, a touch of honey, and the crisp finish of Sterling California Brut for a refreshing drink that pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory dishes.

Prepare a single glass or batch it in advance for gatherings. Garnish with sliced blood orange, kiwi, or edible flowers for a visually stunning presentation.

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Why Sterling California Brut Works

Sterling California Brut is a classic brut style sparkling wine known for:

• Crisp acidity

• Bright citrus notes

• Eureka lemon on the palate

• A floral Meyer lemon finish

• Clean, refreshing texture

Its vibrant citrus profile enhances the blood orange while balancing the subtle sweetness of honey and kiwi.

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Ingredients

• 1 bottle Sterling California Brut (3 ounces per serving)

• 2 ounces freshly squeezed blood orange juice (per serving)

• 1 ounce freshly squeezed kiwi juice (per serving)

• Squeeze of fresh lemon or lime

• 1 tablespoon honey

• Ice

• 1 ounce vodka, optional

• Edible flowers, optional garnish

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Directions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.

2. Add the blood orange juice, kiwi juice, lemon or lime juice, honey, and vodka if using.

3. Shake well until chilled and combined.

4. Strain into a chilled glass.

5. Top with Sterling California Brut.

6. Garnish with edible flowers or fresh citrus slices. Serve immediately.

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Batch Preparation for Entertaining

For a pitcher serving 6 guests:

• 12 ounces blood orange juice

• 6 ounces kiwi juice

• 6 ounces vodka, optional

• 6 tablespoons honey

• Juice of 1 lemon or lime

Stir juice mixture first, then top with chilled Sterling California Brut just before serving to preserve effervescence.

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Brunch Pairing Ideas

This cocktail pairs well with:

• Smoked salmon and avocado toast

• Eggs Benedict

• Fresh fruit platters

• Ricotta pancakes

• Savory quiches

The citrus brightness complements rich brunch classics while keeping the palate refreshed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cocktail without vodka?

Yes. The cocktail is equally delicious without vodka. The sparkling wine and fresh juices provide plenty of flavor and structure.

What if I cannot find blood oranges?

Substitute with fresh orange juice plus a splash of pomegranate juice for color and depth.

Should sparkling wine be very cold for cocktails?

Yes. Always chill sparkling wine thoroughly before adding it to cocktails to preserve bubbles and maintain balance.

Can I prepare this cocktail in advance?

You can mix the juice and honey base ahead of time. Add Sterling California Brut just before serving to maintain freshness and sparkle.