Cassis Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Creme de Cassis
Alcohol 12%
Calories 120 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 8g
Prep time 2 minutes

Imagine you’re about to sip the most perfect, refreshing drink on a sunny afternoon. That’s the essence of a Cassis cocktail—a sweet, tart, and visually stunning beverage that invites you on a flavor journey with its rich history and cultural significance. In this feature, we’ll explore its origin, taste, and how to craft your own, so let’s dive in and mix things up together!

History

The Cassis cocktail hails from France, where it gained popularity for its use of blackcurrant liqueur. Its name and fame spread, becoming a beloved refreshment worldwide. It has a storied past that intertwines with agriculture, gastronomy, and the joy of social gatherings.

• The name ‘Cassis’ is derived from the French word for blackcurrant, ‘cassis’, the key ingredient in the drink.
• It originated in the Burgundy region, known for its blackcurrant cultivation.
• The cocktail gained international fame after being introduced to the Parisian café scene in the early 20th century.

The taste of a Cassis?

Cassis cocktails have a sweet, berry-forward taste with a hint of tartness that tickles your tongue. Imagine a ripe, juicy berry bursting with flavor—that’s the sensation you get with each sip.

I personally love Cassis because it’s sweet, refreshing, and the perfect balance of fruitiness and tang.

Interesting facts about Cassis

• Cassis cocktails often use Crème de Cassis, a liqueur made from macerated blackcurrants.
• They can be adapted into various drinks, like the Kir and Kir Royale, when mixed with white wine or champagne.
• Blackcurrants used in Cassis were once banned in the United States, making the cocktail a rare treat until recent years.

Ingredients

• Crème de Cassis: 1 oz (30ml)
• White Wine: 3 oz (90ml)
• Lemon Twist: for garnish

A Cassis is often served in a wine glass to enhance the aromatic experience. The wide bowl of the glass allows the delightful berry scents to tease the senses before each sip. Alternatively, a flute glass is also suitable, especially for a sparkling version like the Kir Royale.

Recipe. How to make Cassis

1. Add 3 oz (90ml) of chilled white wine to a wine glass.
2. Pour in 1 oz (30ml) of Crème de Cassis.
3. Gently stir the mixture to blend the flavors.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Cassis cocktails can be quite sweet and contain sugar, making them a treat to enjoy in moderation. For a healthier twist, one could use natural sweeteners or reduce the amount of Crème de Cassis. Blackcurrants are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, offering some nutritional benefits.

Food Pairings

The right food can elevate the Cassis experience, complementing its rich berry flavor and refreshing nature. Here are some delectable pairings to consider.

Cheese Platter

The sweet and tart profile of a Cassis pairs exquisitely with a variety of cheeses, especially creamy brie or sharp cheddar, balancing the flavors.

Grilled Chicken

A simple grilled chicken dish benefits from the Cassis’s fruity notes, adding a layer of complexity to the meal.

Dark Chocolate

For dessert, the boldness of dark chocolate contrasts beautifully with the sweet brightness of the drink, creating a sophisticated finish to any dining experience.

I really enjoy the taste of Cassiss—it’s like a cheerful burst of summer that dances on the taste buds!

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Bartender Advice

• Chill your glasses in advance to keep the cocktail refreshingly cold without dilution.
• Use quality Crème de Cassis for a richer, more authentic flavor.
• Experiment with the ratio of wine to liqueur to customize the sweetness and strength to your liking.

Now, let’s explore how you can personalize your Cassis and check out some exciting variations on this classic cocktail.

What you could change in Cassis

• White Wine: Swap for sparkling wine to create a fizzy, celebratory drink.
• Crème de Cassis: Adjust the amount for a sweeter or more tart profile.
• Garnish: Try different citrus twists or berries for varied aromatics and visuals.

Cassis Variations

Kir Royale

• Ingredients: Replace white wine with champagne.
• Recipe: Mix champagne and Crème de Cassis, then garnish with a raspberry.

Cassis Spritz

• Ingredients: Add soda water to the classic Cassis ingredients.
• Recipe: Layer white wine, Cassis, and top with soda water for a bubbly twist.

Bramble

• Ingredients: Gin and lemon juice join the Crème de Cassis.
• Recipe: Shake gin, lemon juice, and ice, then drizzle with Cassis over the top.

For those who prefer a non-alcoholic beverage, a Virgin Cassis can be quite delightful. Simply replace the wine with sparkling grape juice and follow the rest of the recipe as usual.

Q&A

Can I make a Cassis cocktail ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can mix the wine and Crème de Cassis and keep it chilled. Just add garnishes before serving to preserve their zest.

What can I use if I don’t have Crème de Cassis?

Blackcurrant syrup is a great non-alcoholic substitute, though it may be sweeter, so adjust accordingly.

Is there a specific type of white wine best for a Cassis?

Dry, crisp wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complement the liqueur’s sweetness nicely.

How can I garnish my Cassis cocktail if I don’t have a lemon?

Orange or lime twists work well, or even a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color.

Are there any tricks to getting the perfect flavor balance in a Cassis?

Start with the recommended ratios, then tweak to your palate. Remember, a little Cassis goes a long way!

Can Cassis cocktails be part of a healthy diet?

In moderation, yes. The antioxidants in blackcurrants are beneficial, but be mindful of the sugar content.