Creme de Cassis

This French blackcurrant liqueur is the whole reason a Kir exists — pour a splash into dry white wine and you’ve got the classic Burgundian aperitif. Swap the wine for Champagne and it becomes a Kir Royale. Creme de cassis is deeply fruity and sweet, typically 15-20% ABV, with a gorgeous dark purple color. Lejay is the original brand from Dijon, dating back to 1841. Once opened, use it within a few months — it oxidizes faster than most liqueurs. A dash in a Bramble or mixed with soda makes a surprisingly refreshing low-alcohol drink.

Last modified on September 24, 2026