Kir Royal: A Classy Celebration Aperitif
Not only is this champagne based cocktail delicious but it is gorgeous as well. We enjoy this Kir Royal cocktail when celebrating a special occasion with friends. Adding just a little splash of flavor to your bubbly (Champagne if from France and Sparkling Wine from anywhere else) offers color and a nuanced sweetness that is refreshing and delightful.
What is the Kir Royal Aperitif?
Basically, it is Champagne with a splash of Creme de Cassis, a black currant liqueur. Also, although the word aperitif is a French word for a cocktail served before a meal to stimulate the appetite, in the US, we may enjoy this cocktail as a dessert drink as well.
Happy Hour Trivia!
The Kir Royal is a French cocktail, named after a priest who served as a politician and resistance fighter during World War II. The original Kir named for this priest, Canon Felix Kir, was titled “Kir” alone. White wine was used in this original version. Felix Kir would serve this drink regularly to his delegations, thus it became known as “Kir”. Once the cocktail evolved to the use of Champagne, the “Royal” name was added.
Although in many searches, you may find this drink to be called “Kir Royale” with an “e” at the end, my French in-laws will correct that it is spelled Royal, yet still pronounced like “Royale” , as it is the French pronunciation. Kir is masculine in French and Royale would be the masculine accompanying spelling, therefore, Kir Royal. And that is your happy hour trivia to share when you serve this delicious cocktail!
Kir Royal Variations
The French often add various liqueurs to their Champagne for aperitif. The ones I see most often would be Elderflower (St. Germain), Raspberry Liqueur (Chambord), and Peach. My favs are….ALL of those. Another fun fact that you may not see in the US: It is also a French tradition to add a peach syrup to light beers.
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Kir Royal
- Total Time: 2 minutes
- Yield: 1 1x
Description
A simple delicious option when you want some bubbly!
Ingredients
- 1/2 oz or a splash of Creme de Cassis (black currant liqueur)
- 5 oz Champagne or Sparkling Wine
Optional fruit garnish such as raspberry, strawberry, or blueberry
Instructions
- Pour the 1/2 ounce of Creme de Cassis in the bottom of the champagne flute.
- Carefully pour the Champagne or sparkling wine down the inside of the glass, et VOILA!
- Prep Time: 2
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