"Italian ice is a frozen or semi-frozen sweetened treat made with fruit (often from concentrates, juices, or purées) or other natural or artificial food flavorings, similar to sorbet."
2 cups water
1 cup champagne
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup fresh lime juice
Lime wheels for garnish, optional
Mint for garnish, optional
In a saucepan, bring water, champagne and sugar to a boil. As soon as the sugar is dissolved, remove from heat. Refrigerate for about one hour, until mixture is cool. Add lime juice. Pour mixture into a 13 x 9 x 2-inch nonreactive baking dish. Put into freezer. After 1 1/2 hours, remove from freezer and scrape the ice with a fork, combining the softer center with the more frozen outer edges. Return to freezer for an additional 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Using a fork, scrap again, and serve. Garnish with lime wheels and a sprig of mint, if desired.