Kir Royale
Kir Royale is a simple, elegant French cocktail with vivid blackcurrant sweetness lifted by crisp, fine bubbles. The result is fragrant, lightly fruity, and celebratory, with a bright citrus aroma from the lemon peel.
Ingredients
Pour le cocktail
- 30 mlcrème de cassis
- 180 mlChampagne, well chilled
- 2 thin stripslemon peel
Pour servir
- 4-6 cubesice cubes for chilling glasses (optional)
Instructions
- 1
If you want an extra-cold serve, place 2 flute glasses in the freezer for 5 minutes or fill them with ice cubes while you prepare the drink. Use very well-chilled Champagne so the bubbles stay lively and the cocktail remains crisp.
- 2
Remove any ice from the glasses if using. Pour 15 ml crème de cassis into each flute. Keeping the liqueur at the bottom helps create the classic layered look before serving.
- 3
Slowly top each glass with 90 ml chilled Champagne, pouring down the inside of the glass to preserve carbonation and prevent foaming over. Give each glass one very gentle stir only if needed to lightly combine.
- 4
Express each strip of lemon peel over the drink by twisting it gently to release its oils, then drop it in or rest it on the rim. Serve immediately while fully sparkling.
Nutrition per serving
Notes
- •A traditional Kir Royale is often made with Champagne, but a good-quality dry sparkling wine can be used if preferred.
- •For the best balance, use brut Champagne; sweeter styles can make the drink cloying with the cassis.
- •Do not add ice directly to the cocktail, as it will dilute the flavor and mute the bubbles.
- •You can adjust the cassis slightly to taste, but too much will overpower the wine and sweetness.
Background
Kir Royale is a sparkling variation of Kir, the French aperitif of crème de cassis and white wine associated with Burgundy and named after Félix Kir, a priest and former mayor of Dijon. The Royale version became popular as Champagne and other sparkling wines were adopted for a more festive, elegant serve.
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