You might have been inspired by a recent Netflix binge or simply looking for a delightful cocktail to enjoy on a warm day. Either way, the classic kir royale is a superb choice as this refreshing, bubbly drink is not only sophisticated but also incredibly easy to make. With just two main ingredients, this vibrant red cocktail has its origins in France, where it is traditionally prepared by adding a splash of crème de cassis, a sweet blackcurrant liqueur, to sparkling white wine like Champagne.
Perfect for casual get-togethers or elegant soirees, a kir royale takes less than a minute to prepare and is a fantastic option for effortless entertaining. To elevate your cocktail experience, consider garnishing your kir royale with fresh berries or a lemon twist. Enjoy the sumptuous flavor and raise a glass to savoring every moment. Cheers!
Kir Royale Ingredients
To create the Kir Royale, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Crème de cassis: The quintessential French black currant liqueur, this deep red elixir has been crafted in Dijon, France, for over 150 years. Its rich, sweet, and dark berry flavor is the essence of the cocktail. Should you not find crème de cassis available, Chambord (a French raspberry liqueur) can be a fitting alternative.
Dry sparkling white wine: While traditionally made with chilled Champagne or another French sparkling white wine, you may opt for cava, prosecco, or another favored sparkling white wine. It is crucial to select a brut, brut nature, or ultra brut variety, as its dry acidity will complement the sweetness of the black currant liqueur.
Fresh berries (optional): Though not required, adding fresh raspberries or currants to each glass makes for an appealing garnish. Alternatively, a lemon twist can be a delightful touch.
Remember to enjoy this indulgent cocktail responsibly and share it with friends for a touch of elegance on any occasion.
Kir Royale Utensils
For a delightful Kir Royale, prepare with:
Glasses: Typically, use a classic champagne flute as the go-to Kir Royale glass. However, stemless champagne flutes or coupe glasses are also suitable options. To ensure your drink stays chilled, briefly cool your glasses before filling them.
Cocktail jigger: This handy tool measures the crème de cassis for accuracy. Alternatively, simplify the process by using a tablespoon-measuring spoon.
Making a tasty Kir Royale with brut champagne is a breeze using these essential tools. Enjoy!
Crafting a Kir Royale Cocktail
To create a delightful Kir Royale cocktail, simply follow these steps:
Mix the crème de cassis and a few berries in a champagne flute.
Fill the rest of the flute with sparkling wine, ensuring it’s chilled.
Serve instantly and savor your refreshing beverage!
Frequently Asked Questions about Kir Royale
Pronunciation of kir royale: Listen to the proper pronunciation of kir royale here.
Meaning of kir royale: This drink was named after Canon Félix Kir, a French priest and WWII resistance hero who became the mayor of Dijon. The term “royale” refers to the addition of sparkling wine.
Kir vs. kir royale: A kir cocktail is made with crème de cassis and white wine, while a kir royale features sparkling white wine instead.
History of kir royale: The kir royale is a variation of the kir cocktail, first created in France in 1904. Canon Félix Kir popularized it during his time as mayor of Dijon, as he enjoyed promoting local products. This combination of local white wine and crème de cassis became his signature drink, eventually evolving into the Kir Royale.
Ratio for kir royale: The usual ratio of sparkling wine to crème de cassis is 6:1. Add a few berries and fill a champagne glass nearly to the top.
When to serve a kir royale: Typically, kir royale is served as an aperitif before dinner. However, it’s also great for brunch or as a fun bubbly cocktail to end the night.
More Bubbly Cocktails
Description
In search of additional effervescent drinks to taste this season? Consider trying some popular options like the French 75, Mimosa, or Campari Spritz.
For a delightful Kir Imperial, follow these simple steps using a combination of sparkling wine, crème de cassis, and your favorite berries:
1/2 ounce (1 tablespoon) crème de cassis
Chilled dry sparkling white wine (such as champagne), filled to the top
Fresh berries, for garnish
Mix: Add the crème de cassis into a champagne flute along with a few berries. Fill to the top with your choice of sparkling wine.
Serve: Quickly serve the refreshing concoction and relish its delightful flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some variations of Kir Royale?
Classic Kir Royale: Crème de cassis and champagne
Kir Pétillant: Crème de cassis and sparkling wine
Kir Royal Peche: Peach liqueur and champagne
Kir Impérial: Raspberry liqueur and champagne
Which garnish goes well with Kir Royale?
Fresh raspberries
A twist of lemon peel
Black currants
How to pronounce ‘Kir Royale’ correctly?
It is pronounced as “keer roy-ahl.”
What is the ideal cassis for a Kir Royale?
Some top options include:
Brand
Origin
Lejay
France
Briottet
France
Giffard Cassis
France
Kir vs Kir Royale: what’s the difference?
Kir: White wine and crème de cassis
Kir Royale: Champagne and crème de cassis
Can Chambord substitute crème de cassis in Kir Royale?
Yes, Chambord (raspberry liqueur) can be used as a substitute for crème de cassis. The resulting cocktail will have a raspberry flavor instead of black currant.
