Black Currant Cassis Cocktail

Featured in: Everyday Recipe Ideas

This classic French aperitif combines the rich sweetness of crème de cassis blackcurrant liqueur with crisp chilled dry white wine. The result is a perfectly balanced sweet-tart cocktail that's both elegant and refreshing. Simply pour the liqueur into chilled glasses, top with wine, and stir gently. For a sparkling variation, replace the white wine with Champagne to create a Kir Royale. This versatile drink pairs beautifully with light appetizers like goat cheese crostini or olives, making it an ideal choice for entertaining or leisurely afternoons.

Updated on Thu, 05 Feb 2026 09:43:11 GMT
A chilled Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail poured into a frosty wine glass, garnished with fresh black currants and a lemon twist. Save
A chilled Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail poured into a frosty wine glass, garnished with fresh black currants and a lemon twist. | suggestionsforever.com

A vibrant and refreshing aperitif blending blackcurrant liqueur with chilled white wine, offering a sweet-tart flavor perfect for starting any gathering.

A chilled Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail poured into a frosty wine glass, garnished with fresh black currants and a lemon twist. Save
A chilled Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail poured into a frosty wine glass, garnished with fresh black currants and a lemon twist. | suggestionsforever.com

This Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail, rooted in French tradition, is the epitome of simple elegance. Whether you are hosting a formal dinner or a casual get-together, its deep purple hue and crisp flavor profile make it a sophisticated choice for any host.

Ingredients

  • 100 ml crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur)
  • 300 ml chilled dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Aligoté)
  • Fresh blackcurrants or lemon twists (optional)
  • Ice cubes (optional)
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Instructions

Step 1
Chill two wine glasses in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before preparing the cocktail.
Step 2
Pour 50 ml of crème de cassis into each glass.
Step 3
Top each glass with 150 ml of chilled dry white wine.
Step 4
Stir gently to combine without disturbing the wines effervescence.
Step 5
Add a few ice cubes if desired.
Step 6
Garnish with fresh blackcurrants or a lemon twist. Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To achieve the best results, use a measuring jug for precise proportions. A bar spoon is recommended for stirring gently to ensure the liqueur and wine blend seamlessly without losing the wine's brightness.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a sparkling version known as a Kir Royale, substitute the white wine with Champagne or a dry sparkling wine. You can also adjust the ratio of cassis to wine if you prefer a sweeter or drier cocktail profile.

Serviervorschläge

This aperitif pairs beautifully with light appetizers such as goat cheese crostini or olives. The saltiness of these snacks perfectly complements the sweet-tart notes of the blackcurrant liqueur.

Two elegant glasses of Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail sit beside a chilled bottle of white wine and a plate of goat cheese crostini. Save
Two elegant glasses of Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail sit beside a chilled bottle of white wine and a plate of goat cheese crostini. | suggestionsforever.com

Sip and enjoy this timeless French classic. Each serving provides approximately 175 calories, 23g of carbohydrates, and is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. Serve immediately for the best experience.

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Recipe Help & FAQs

What type of white wine works best?

Dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Aligoté work exceptionally well. The crisp acidity and subtle fruit notes complement the sweet blackcurrant liqueur beautifully without overpowering its delicate flavor.

Can I make this in advance?

It's best prepared just before serving to maintain optimal chill and effervescence. However, you can chill the glasses and measure ingredients beforehand for quick assembly when guests arrive.

What's the difference between this and a Kir Royale?

The traditional version uses still dry white wine while a Kir Royale substitutes Champagne or sparkling wine. Both use the same crème de cassis base, but the sparkling version offers a more celebratory presentation.

Can I adjust the sweetness level?

Absolutely. Use less crème de cassis for a drier taste or increase the amount for a sweeter profile. The classic ratio is approximately one part liqueur to three parts wine, but personal preference should guide your measurements.

What garnishes complement this drink?

Fresh blackcurrants provide an authentic touch, while lemon twists add bright citrus notes. You can also experiment with orange slices or fresh herbs like mint for subtle aromatic complexity.

Is this suitable for large gatherings?

This is perfect for entertaining as it comes together quickly. For crowds, consider mixing a batch in a pitcher with the proper ratios, though individual preparation ensures each serving is perfectly chilled and presented.

Black Currant Cassis Cocktail

A vibrant French aperitif blending crème de cassis with chilled dry white wine for a sweet-tart refreshing drink.

Prep Time
5 mins
0
Overall Time
5 mins
Created by Suggestions Forever Hannah Lewis


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine French

Makes 2 Serving Count

Diet Details Plant-based, No Dairy, No Gluten

Ingredient List

Alcohol

01 3.4 fl oz crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur)
02 10.1 fl oz chilled dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Aligoté

Garnish

01 Fresh blackcurrants or lemon twists
02 Ice cubes, optional

Directions

Step 01

Chill the Glassware: Place two wine glasses in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to ensure proper chilling before preparing the cocktail.

Step 02

Pour the Liqueur: Pour 1.7 fl oz of crème de cassis into each chilled wine glass.

Step 03

Add the White Wine: Top each glass with 5.1 fl oz of chilled dry white wine.

Step 04

Combine Gently: Stir gently with a bar spoon to combine the liqueur and wine without disturbing the wine's effervescence.

Step 05

Add Ice: Add a few ice cubes to each glass if desired.

Step 06

Garnish and Serve: Garnish each glass with fresh blackcurrants or a lemon twist and serve immediately.

Needed Equipment

  • Wine glasses
  • Measuring jug
  • Bar spoon

Allergy Notice

Review each ingredient to check for allergens. Ask a healthcare specialist if you're unsure.
  • Contains alcohol.
  • Gluten-free provided the wine and liqueur are certified gluten-free; verify product labels if you have sensitivities.

Nutrition Info (per serving)

Details shown are for reference. Always check with your healthcare provider for advice.
  • Calories: 175
  • Fats: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Proteins: 0 g