Ambrosia Champagne Cocktail with Applejack and Brandy

The Ambrosia Champagne Cocktail delivers a sparkling blend of applejack, brandy, citrus, and bubbles. It’s a crisp, fruit-forward drink that balances richness with effervescence, perfect for gatherings or a solo toast.

Background

Named after the mythical food of the gods, Ambrosia has appeared in American bar culture for more than a century. Early versions combined brandy and citrus, but the addition of applejack and Champagne gave the drink a celebratory edge. Its layered flavors reflect both old-world spirits and new-world ingenuity.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• Applejack – the apple-rich backbone with a rustic American edge.
• Brandy – smooth warmth that deepens the base.
• Triple Sec – a sweet, citrus lift that ties fruit and spirit together.
• Lemon Juice – tart brightness to cut through sweetness.
• Champagne – sparkling finish that transforms it into a festive highball.

Equipment

• Highball glass
• Cocktail shaker
• Strainer

Sparkling Harmony

This cocktail shines with its interplay of rich brandy, sharp citrus, and crisp bubbles. It’s refreshing yet indulgent, offering both complexity and drinkability in one tall glass.

Substitutions & Variations

• Applejack → Swap for Calvados for a refined French apple note.
• Brandy → Use Cognac for smoother depth.
• Triple Sec → Replace with Cointreau for a more defined orange profile.
• Champagne → Prosecco or Cava work as approachable alternatives.

Helpful Tips

• Chill the Champagne well before topping for maximum fizz.
• Use fresh lemon juice; bottled juice dulls the brightness.
• Garnish with a lemon twist or thin apple slice for visual appeal.
• Batch the base spirits (without Champagne) ahead of time for easy service at parties.