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Kir
A simple, elegant French aperitif of white wine and blackcurrant liqueur.
Base spirit
Wine
Style
Aperitif
Glassware
Wine glass
Technique
Build
The Kir is the foundational French aperitif, combining dry acidic white wine (traditionally Aligoté) with the dark berry sweetness of crème de cassis. Unlike the Kir Royale (made with Champagne), the still wine version is more humble and widely consumed in French homes and cafés. The cassis creates a beautiful reddish-purple hue and softens the wine's acidity. It is a study in two-ingredient balance.
Ingredients
Servings
- • 0.5 oz crème de cassis
- • 5 oz dry white wine (Aligoté or Sauvignon Blanc)
Did you know?
“Named after Félix Kir, the mayor of Dijon and hero of the French Resistance, who promoted the drink to showcase the region's two main products: white wine and blackcurrants.”
Source:Dijon city history; Difford's Guide
Bartender's Note
Put the cassis in the glass first, then pour the wine; this helps them mix without needing to stir aggressively.
Missing a bottle? See smart swaps in Learn.
How to make the Kir
- 1Pour crème de cassis into a wine glass
- 2Top with chilled white wine
- 3Serve immediately (no ice)
