Pomegranate Sorbet in Champagne

Look for large, heavy pomegranates to yield dark red juice. Serve the sorbet in shallow bowls in a pool of Champagne or pass glasses of Champagne alongside.

SERVINGS:  MAKES ABOUT 4 CUPS

7 large pomegranates-- 6 halved crosswise, plus 1 peeled and separated into seeds, for garnish
3/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
Chilled brut Champagne, for serving
Candied Clementines

1. Using a large citrus juicer, ream 12 of the pomegranate halves to yield 2 cups of juice. Strain the juice if necessary to remove any seeds or white pith.

2. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar with 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons water. Simmer the syrup over moderate heat until thick and reduced to 3/4 cup, about 5 minutes. Let cool to room temperature. Stir the syrup and lemon juice into the pomegranate juice. Transfer the mixture to an ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer's instructions. While the sorbet is churning, chill a stainless steel bowl in the freezer. As soon as the sorbet is done, transfer it to the chilled bowl.

3. To serve, scoop the pomegranate sorbet into chilled dessert bowls or Champagne saucers. Pour Champagne around the sorbet, garnish with 3 or 4 Candied Clementines and sprinkle with the pomegranate seeds.

MAKE AHEAD: The pomegranate juice can be frozen for up to 1 month.
The pomegranate sorbet can be frozen, covered, for up to 2 days.