Classic Kir Royale Cocktail Recipe

If you’d like to add a bit of elegance to your next home happy hour, the Kir Royale is a drink you definitely want to try. This classic French cocktail combines champagne or sparkling wine with rich crème de cassis, a sweet black currant liqueur.

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Featuring a beautiful deep reddish color and a delightful taste, this champagne cocktail is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a small gathering or a big celebration. It’s so easy to make, too.

Tasting Profile

When you first take a whiff, you notice a delightful mix of fruity and floral aromas. The crème de cassis gives off a hint of sweetness along with hints of berries, while the sparkling wine adds a refreshing touch that’s almost citrus-like.

When you actually sip the Kir Royale, it creates a wonderful balance on your palate. The bubbles from the sparkling wine create a lively sensation, while the crème de cassis gives it a creamy texture and a burst of ripe black currant flavor.

Key Ingredients

One of the great things about the Kir Royale is how simple it is to prepare. With just two main ingredients, you can make it quickly and easily, which allows you to spend more less time filling drinks and more time enjoying your celebration.

Champagne

The base of the Kir Royale is high-quality sparkling wine or a champagne. Champagne is often used, but you can also opt for a dry prosecco or cava. Just make sure it’s a dry variety, because the next ingredient has all the sweetness this cocktail needs.

Crème de Cassis

This liqueur is made from black currants, sugar, and neutral spirits. It has a dark, smooth texture and an intense sweetness.

Garnish

The standard garnish is a berry or two – blackberries as pictured here, or raspberries – which will float near the top thanks to the champagne’s effervescence.

But you could instead of also add a twist of lemon for a bright touch.

Serving Suggestions

The Kir Royale is mainly for celebrations, but not exclusively.

For Special Occasions

Thanks to its sophisticated look and taste, this drink makes an excellent choice for celebrations and special events. Its beautiful color and bubbly nature add elegance to any gathering, from weddings to New Year’s Eve parties.

Date Night or Anniversary

It’s also great for a romantic dinner at home or a night out. The effervescence of the sparkling wine adds a celebratory feel, creating an inviting atmosphere for conversation and connection. It’s a wonderful choice for an anniversary – see below for planning a meal to go along with it!

Brunch

Brunch often includes a mix of sweet and savory dishes, from fluffy pancakes to savory quiches. The Kir Royale’s light, refreshing quality makes it an ideal match for these flavors.

Whether it’s served alongside eggs Benedict, fruit salads, or charcuterie boards, its fruity notes and effervescence enhance the overall dining experience. Your guests can enjoy experimenting with different food pairings while sipping on this cocktail.

In Flute Glasses

Typically, Kir Royale is served in chilled flute or champagne glasses. The tall shape showcases its vibrant color and helps keep the bubbles alive for longer.

Food Pairings

The refreshing taste of the Kir Royale makes it an excellent match for many foods. Consider pairing it with a cheese board featuring salty treats like brie, gouda, smoked salmon and prosciutto.

For appetizers, it’s great with stuffed mushrooms or mini quiches. Or pair it with entrees like grilled scallops, seared tuna or sushi.

And don’t forget desserts – try crème brûlée, raspberry sorbet or dark chocolate-dipped strawberries.

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