06 Mar HAPPY HOUR – THE MIMOSA FOR INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

I’m normally not very patriotic, nor particularly bothered about being proud of my Italian roots. But I confess that each March 8^th I am a little.

While Italians are not particularly renowned for respecting women, they are very famous for loving them. And since the 1950s, after an initiative promoted by left wing politician, partisan, and all-round good egg, Teresa Mattei, the Acacia Dealbata, or wattle tree, has become a symbol for women’s empowerment and independence. On International Women’s Day flowering Mimosa branches are donated to ladettes, ladies and lasses across the country as a sign of respect, admiration and care.

No doubt named after the wattle tree because its colour resembled the fragrant bright yellow flowers, the Mimosa is a lovely, refreshing cocktail, perfect for brunches and early Spring aperitifs.

So ladies, even if you’re not in Italy, why don’t you toast to IWD with a Mimosa this March 8^th ?

• 75ml Champagne
• 60ml freshly squeezed orange juice
• 15ml Triple Sec orange liqueur
• Orange peel or slice for garnish (optional)

Make sure both your Champagne and orange juice are chilled. Then, into a flute, pour the Triple Sec, then the juice and finally the Champagne. Stir and add an orange peel to garnish.
The Mimosa is often mistaken for a Buck Fizz, so don’t forget the Triple Sec (which the Buck Fizz doesn’t have).

Photography & styling: Margherita Poggiali and Dee Ramadan