Kir Royal in a champagne flute with a colour gradient from red to gold

Cocktail

Kir Royal

How to make a Kir Royal - the refined French aperitif of champagne and Creme de Cassis. A festive sparkling cocktail in just 2 minutes.

2 minPrep time
easyDifficulty
Champagne fluteGlass
1Serving(s)

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The Kir Royal is French elegance in a glass - the deep red shimmer of the Creme de Cassis, dissolving into golden champagne, makes it the epitome of the festive aperitif. Named after the mayor of Dijon, Felix Kir, it belongs at every upscale celebration.

Instructions

  1. Pre-chill a champagne flute.
  2. Add the Creme de Cassis to the bottom of the glass.
  3. Slowly pour in well-chilled champagne.
  4. Stir gently once.
  5. Optionally garnish with fresh blackcurrants.

Garnish: A few fresh blackcurrants (optional)

Pro tip: Always add the Creme de Cassis to the glass first and then slowly pour in the champagne - this creates a beautiful colour gradient from deep red to gold.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Kir and Kir Royal?

In the classic Kir, Creme de Cassis is topped up with white wine. In the Kir Royal, champagne or sparkling wine is used instead, which makes it more festive.

What is Creme de Cassis?

Creme de Cassis is a sweet French liqueur made from blackcurrants. It originally comes from Burgundy and gives the Kir Royal its deep red colour.

Which sparkling wine suits a Kir Royal?

A dry champagne or brut sparkling wine is ideal, since the Creme de Cassis already brings plenty of sweetness.

Ingredients

  • Creme de Cassis2 cl
  • Champagne or dry sparkling wine10 cl
  • fresh blackcurrants (optional)1 handful
  • Lemon twist (optional)1