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Kir Royale

Serves 4 to 6 Beverage vegetarian, Beverages

Kir Royale

The Kir Royale emerges from the everyday life of Burgundy, a cherished fixture at apéritif hour. Here, the wine aroma beckons all to gather, heralding the transition from the day's labors to the evening's pleasures. In this home-crafted version, the flavors remain unpretentious yet ample, reflecting the generosity of a family cook's touch.

Expect a symphony of crisp bubbles mingling with the sweet, berry-rich depth of crème de cassis. This elegant yet approachable cocktail delights with its balance, offering a refreshing effervescence that dances on the palate. Each sip is a reminder of Burgundy's convivial spirit, encapsulating the simple joy of a shared moment.

Ingredients

  • 750 mlcrémant or Champagne
  • 3 tbspcrème de cassis

Method

  1. Begin by selecting a mixing glass or pitcher that can comfortably hold at least 750 ml of liquid. Pour 750 ml of crémant or Champagne into the vessel. Ensure the sparkling wine is well-chilled, as this will help maintain the effervescence and enhance the refreshing quality of the drink.
  2. Add 3 tablespoons of crème de cassis to the mixing glass with the crémant or Champagne. The crème de cassis should be at room temperature to allow it to blend smoothly with the cold sparkling wine, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
  3. Gently stir the mixture with a long-handled spoon. Stirring should be done slowly and carefully to avoid losing the bubbles from the sparkling wine. The goal is to achieve a uniform color and flavor without agitating the liquid too much.
  4. Taste the mixture to assess the balance of flavors. If you find it too sweet, you may add a little more crémant or Champagne. Conversely, if it lacks sweetness, adjust by adding a small splash of crème de cassis. The ideal Kir Royale should have a subtle sweetness with a hint of berry flavor from the cassis.
  5. Once the desired balance is achieved, pour the Kir Royale into chilled Champagne flutes. The glasses should be cold to the touch, which helps to maintain the drink's temperature and effervescence.
  6. Serve immediately to enjoy the full aroma and flavor of the Kir Royale. Optionally, garnish each glass with a thin lemon twist or a fresh mint leaf to add a touch of elegance and a subtle aromatic note.
Cover of Authentic French Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic French Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic French Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the French volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

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