Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail

Featured in: Weekend Mint-Touched Treats

This classic French aperitif combines the deep, fruity sweetness of crème de cassis with crisp dry white wine, creating a perfectly balanced sweet-tart cocktail. Ready in just 5 minutes, it's an elegant start to any gathering. The traditional Kir cocktail features white wine, while substituting Champagne creates a Kir Royale for special occasions. Adjust the ratio of liqueur to wine based on your preference—more cassis yields a sweeter drink, while less keeps it drier and more refreshing.

Updated on Fri, 06 Feb 2026 12:02:36 GMT
Chilled white wine poured into a glass with deep purple crème de cassis, creating the sweet-tart Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail. Save
Chilled white wine poured into a glass with deep purple crème de cassis, creating the sweet-tart Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail. | rusticmint.com

The Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail is a vibrant and refreshing aperitif blending rich blackcurrant liqueur with chilled dry white wine. This French-inspired drink offers a sophisticated sweet-tart flavor profile, making it a perfect choice for starting any gathering or celebration.

Chilled white wine poured into a glass with deep purple crème de cassis, creating the sweet-tart Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail. Save
Chilled white wine poured into a glass with deep purple crème de cassis, creating the sweet-tart Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail. | rusticmint.com

Often served as a traditional Kir, this cocktail is as easy to make as it is pleasant to drink. Its simplicity allows the fruit-forward notes of the blackcurrant to really shine against a crisp wine base.

Ingredients

Tired of Takeout? 🥡

Get 10 meals you can make faster than delivery arrives. Seriously.

One email. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

  • 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)

Instructions

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

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To achieve the best flavor, use a measuring jug to get the ratio exactly right and a bar spoon to stir gently. Chilling your glasses beforehand is a crucial step to keep the cocktail refreshing from the first sip to the last.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a sparkling version known as a Kir Royale, you can substitute the white wine with Champagne or a dry sparkling wine. Additionally, feel free to adjust the ratio of cassis to wine if you prefer a sweeter or a drier finish.

Serviervorschläge

This aperitif is best served alongside light appetizers. Try pairing it with goat cheese crostini or a bowl of Mediterranean olives to complement the sweet-tart notes of the blackcurrant.

Garnished with fresh blackcurrants and lemon twists, the elegant Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail sits ready for a dinner party. Save
Garnished with fresh blackcurrants and lemon twists, the elegant Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail sits ready for a dinner party. | rusticmint.com

Whether enjoyed as a summer refresher or a sophisticated dinner starter, this Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail is a timeless classic that never fails to impress.

Common Questions

What type of white wine works best?

Dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Aligoté, or Chardonnay work beautifully. The wine's crispness balances the sweet blackcurrant liqueur perfectly.

Can I make this sparkling?

Absolutely! Substitute the still white wine with Champagne or sparkling wine to create a Kir Royale, a festive variation perfect for celebrations.

How strong is this cocktail?

At approximately 12-15% alcohol by volume, it's similar to a glass of wine. The cassis adds sweetness and flavor without significantly increasing alcohol content.

What food pairs well with this aperitif?

Light appetizers like goat cheese crostini, olives, fresh fruit, or delicate pastries complement the sweet-tart profile beautifully without overwhelming the palate.

How far in advance can I prepare this?

Prepare just before serving to maintain optimal freshness and chill. The ingredients can be measured ahead, but pour and mix immediately before enjoying.

Is there a non-alcoholic alternative?

Replace the wine with sparkling water or tonic water and use blackcurrant syrup instead of crème de cassis for a refreshing mocktail version.

20-Minute Dinner Pack — Free Download 📥

10 recipes, 1 shopping list. Everything you need for a week of easy dinners.

Instant access. No signup hassle.

Black Currant and Cassis Cocktail

A refreshing French aperitif combining crème de cassis with dry white wine for a sweet-tart flavor profile.

Prep Duration
5 minutes
Time to Cook
1 minutes
All Steps Time
6 minutes
Created by Benjamin Thomas


Skill Level Easy

Tradition French

Makes 2 Portions

Nutrition Info Plant-Based, No Dairy, No Gluten

What You'll Need

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 as needed

Method

Step 01

Chill glassware: Place two wine glasses in the refrigerator for 10 minutes prior to preparation

Step 02

Add liqueur: Pour 1.7 fl oz of crème de cassis into each chilled glass

Step 03

Add white wine: Top each glass with 5.1 fl oz of chilled dry white wine

Step 04

Combine ingredients: Stir gently with a bar spoon to combine without disturbing the wine's natural effervescence

Step 05

Add ice: Add ice cubes to each glass if desired

Step 06

Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh blackcurrants or a lemon twist and serve immediately

Tools Needed

  • Wine glasses
  • Measuring jug
  • Bar spoon

Allergy Notes

Look over every ingredient for allergens, and reach out to your doctor if you're unsure.
  • Contains alcohol
  • Gluten-free provided the wine and liqueur are certified gluten-free; verify product labels for sensitivities

Nutrition Breakdown (each portion)

Provided as a general guide by Rustic Mint—always speak with your doctor for dietary help.
  • Energy (Kcal): 175
  • Lipids: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Proteins: 0 g

Cooking Shouldn't Be Hard ❤️

Get a free recipe pack that makes weeknight dinners effortless. Real food, real fast.

Free forever. Unsubscribe anytime.