Classic Cocktails & Drinks With A Funky Twist

Kir Royale

|

Updated: 04/29/22

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy
|
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy

A bubbly cocktail with only two ingredients, this Kir Royale recipe is slightly fruity and oh so refreshing. Champagne cocktails (like the French 75) are always sophisticated in my book, and this classic french recipe is no exception. Made up of champagne and blackcurrant liqueur, the outcome is a simple and delightful indulgence that is festive for any season or occasion.

two champagne flutes of Kir Royale cocktail surrounded by fresh raspberries and blackberries and bottle of champagne

The combination of berries and bubbles balance each other beautifully in this french cocktail. Making cocktails at home doesn’t get much simpler than two ingredients and a classic pour and enjoy, like this Kir Royale. The key is quality ingredients and the correct ratio of each.

What is in a Kir Royale

A Kir Royale has only two ingredients: champagne and blackcurrant liqueur. We recommend using a good quality chilled champagne since there is no ice or shaking with ice to chill the ingredients before serving. In place of champagne, you can also use Prosecco. More info on the two and their differences below. While the cocktail is traditionally made with Crème de cassis, other berry liqueurs will be good substitutes. See below for more information.

man's hand pouring cocktail jigger of Crème de cassis into a champagne flute to make a Kir Royale recipe with bottle of champagne in the background

How to Make a Kir Royale

  1. Pour the Crème de cassis into a glass. Adding this first will ensure that the ingredients will mix properly naturally.
  2. Top with the champagne. Keep your bottle of champagne chilled and open just prior to preparing the cocktail.
  3. Garnish and enjoy.
man's hand pouring bottle of champagne into a champagne flute of Crème de cassis to make a Kir Royale cocktail surrounded by fresh raspberries and blackberries

Time Saving Tip

Although this drink comes together quickly, to save time when hosting or making Kir Royales for a crowd line up your champagne flutes and add Crème de cassis to each glass. Top with champagne just prior to serving.

Crème de mure or Chambord

While Crème de cassis is the primary liqueuer in a Kir Royale, you can also use other berry liqueuers such as Crème de Mure or Chambord. While they are not the same thing, either would be delicious in this recipe.

  • Crème de mure is a liqueur made from blackberries. It is also featured in the Bramble.
  • Chambord is a black raspberry liqueur. A key ingredient in the French Martini.

Garnishing

Garnish your festive Kir Royale with fresh or frozen berries such as raspberries and blackberries.

FAQ

What is champagne good to mix with?

Champagne can be enjoyed alone or mixed with many different things as it is very versatile. Some of the most common partners are orange juice in a Mimosa or many different alcohols such as vodka, gin, bourbon, or brandy.

What is the difference between champagne and prosecco?

Champagne and Prosecco are both sparkling white wines. The difference between them is the type of grapes used to make each spirit. Prosecco can be slightly sweeter and less expensive than champagne. While this recipe calls for Champagne, Prosecco or any sparkling wine will work. The most important thing is to find a brand that you enjoy drinking on its own.

Is champagne a wine or liquor?

Champagne is a sparkling wine made from grapes from the Champagne region of France. While all champagne is sparkling wine, not all sparkling wine is champagne.

two champagne flutes of Kir Royale cocktail surrounded by fresh raspberries and blackberries
Other Champagne Cocktails
two champagne flutes of Kir Royale cocktail surrounded by fresh raspberries and blackberries and bottle of champagne
No ratings yet

Kir Royale

Serves: 1 cocktail
(tap # to scale)
Prep: 3 minutes
Total: 3 minutes
A bubbly cocktail with only two ingredients, the Kir Royale cocktail is refreshing and slightly fruity. The combination of berries and bubbles balance each other beautifully and is festive for any season.

Ingredients

  • 6 ounces Champagne or Prosecco
  • 1 ounce Crème de cassis

Instructions

  • Pour the Crème de cassis into a glass.
  • Top with the champagne.
  • Garnish and enjoy.
Author: Nathan Longley
Course: Drinks
two champagne flutes of Kir Royale cocktail surrounded by fresh raspberries and blackberries and bottle of champagne

Did You Make This

Kir Royale

I’d love to see what you made! Tag me @shakedrinkrpt and hashtag it #shakedrinkrepeat!

Nathan Longley has been his wife’s personal bar tender for as long as he can remember. While he most often enjoys a cold beer, he is known to love our vodka gimlet.

Reader Interactions

Leave A Comment

Have a question? Use the form below to submit your question or comment. I love hearing from you & seeing what you made!

Rate This Recipe:




Best of the BestTop Rated Drinks
glass of margarita with ice, salted rim, and lime
Margarita"This is literally the best margarita I’ve ever had! I can’t get over how good it is." - Becky
Moscow Mule Slush served in copper mug with straws and lime wedge. Additional lime wedges beside.
Moscow Mule Slush"This has become a favorite of ours! We make it every time we have a party." - Jessica
two glasses of strawberry margarita sangria with sugar coated rim
Strawberry Margarita Sangria"I made this for a party and it was a huge hit! Everyone asked for the recipe!" - Jenn