Kir royal

Kir Royal is a popular French cocktail made from a blend of crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur) and Champagne. Named after Félix Kir, a former mayor of Dijon, France, who popularized the drink, the Kir Royal is a variation of the classic Kir cocktail, which uses white wine instead of Champagne.

History

The Kir Royal, as a variant of the Kir, owes its origins to the mid-20th century. Félix Kir, in an effort to promote the sale of the region's products during post-World War II economic recovery, began offering the traditional Kir (white wine and crème de cassis) at official receptions. The Kir Royal, substituting Champagne for white wine, emerged as a more luxurious version of this local aperitif.

Preparation

To prepare a Kir Royal, crème de cassis is poured into a glass, followed by chilled Champagne. The proportions vary according to taste, but a common ratio is 1 part crème de cassis to 9 parts Champagne. The cocktail is typically served in a flute glass.

Variations

Several variations of the Kir Royal exist, substitifying the crème de cassis or the Champagne with other ingredients. For example, a Communard is made with red wine instead of Champagne, and a Kir Breton is made with Breton cider instead of Champagne. When peach liqueur is used instead of crème de cassis, the cocktail is called a Kir Pêche.

See also

• List of cocktails
• French cuisine
• History of Champagne