Champagne Punch

Any occasion that calls for something sparkling and festive deserves this champagne punch! Its pretty pink hue is as fun as its bright, bubbly flavor, and it's easily adaptable based on the occasion. For lighter for daytime sipping, omit the vodka. Or, make it boozier for a cocktail party with other New Year's Eve drinks, by adding an extra bottle of wine. Bring out your punch bowl because this is one of the best champagne cocktails to make for a crowd.

Do I have to use champagne for champagne punch?

Champagne is a type of dry, sparkling wine that comes from a specific region in France and is fermented using a consistent method. But with its prestige comes a higher price tag. For a punch like this one mixed with other fruit juices, it's smart to use a lower-priced sparkling wine like prosecco or cava in place of champagne. The bubbles and fruity flavor are what matter!

What type of sparkling wine is best for champagne punch?

The blend of fruits and juices in this champagne punch mixes well with a chilled white or rosé sparkling wine. A fuller-bodied sparkling red wine, such as lambrusco, will compete with the cranberry and orange flavors. If you like sweeter cocktails, look for a semi-sweet sparkling wine.

Can I make champagne punch without alcohol?

Yes! With a few substitutions, big batch cocktails like this punch can be made without alcohol. Omit the wine, vodka, and orange liqueur; then add 1/4 cup lemon juice, 1/2 cup orange juice, and 3 cups of your favorite non-alcoholic sparkling beverage. Club soda or sparkling water will make the punch less sweet while ginger ale or a lemon-lime soda like Sprite or 7-up will produce a sweeter punch.

Can you make champagne punch ahead of time?

If you want to work ahead, you can combine the juice, vodka, orange liqueur in a pitcher (or your punch bowl), cover, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Just before serving, add the fruit, ice, and sparkling wine.

How long does champagne punch last?

This punch is best enjoyed just after it's made because the sparkling wine loses its bubbles quickly. If you don't think you'll drink it all, consider skipping adding the wine to the punch bowl. Instead, pour the punch in glasses and top each one with some bubbly just before serving.