There’s something timeless and effortlessly elegant about a Cassis cocktail. It’s sweet, a little tart, and has this deep berry flavor that makes it feel like summer in a glass-no matter the season. Whether you’re serving it at brunch, as an aperitif before dinner, or just winding down on a patio, it’s a simple drink that always feels a little special. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it’s still one of my favorite ways to add a pop of color and flavor to a gathering.
Vermouth Cassis
Ingredients
Serves: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Glassware: Wine glass or champagne flute
- 1 oz (30 ml) Crème de Cassis – a sweet liqueur made from blackcurrants
- 3 oz (90 ml) chilled dry white wine – like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
- Lemon twist – for garnish
Method
- Chill your glass ahead of time. This keeps your cocktail nice and cold without needing ice that could water it down.
- Pour the white wine into the glass first – 3 oz (90 ml) of a dry, crisp white works best. You want something that balances the sweetness of the liqueur.
- Add the Crème de Cassis – 1 oz (30 ml). It will gently swirl through the wine, creating a beautiful ombre effect.
- Give it a gentle stir. Just enough to combine the flavors without losing the layered look.
- Garnish with a lemon twist. This adds a lovely citrus aroma right as you take a sip.
Tips & Tricks
- Use good-quality Crème de Cassis. It makes a difference. Look for one from the Burgundy region if you can find it.
- Taste and adjust. If you like it less sweet, reduce the Crème de Cassis slightly or add a splash more wine.
- Try a sparkling version. Swap the white wine for dry sparkling wine to make a Kir Royale-it’s bubbly, festive, and always a hit.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the wine and Crème de Cassis ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just wait to add the garnish until right before serving so it stays fresh and aromatic.
Ingredient Swaps
- No Crème de Cassis? Try blackcurrant syrup or even pomegranate molasses for a similar sweet-tart vibe. Just use a little less if it’s very sweet.
- No lemon? An orange or lime twist works great. A few fresh blackberries or a sprig of mint are also nice touches.
- Prefer it alcohol-free? Use sparkling white grape juice instead of wine and follow the rest of the recipe as is. It’s a great mocktail option.
What It Tastes Like
A Cassis cocktail hits that sweet spot-literally. It’s fruity with a gentle tartness from the blackcurrants, and the wine keeps it light and refreshing. The lemon twist adds just the right amount of zing to balance the sweetness. I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner drinks because this one always makes people pause and say, “Wow, what is this?”
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Cassis cocktail with:
- Soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese – the creaminess and the drink’s berry notes play off each other beautifully.
- Grilled chicken or fish – the acidity cuts through and brightens up the dish.
- Dark chocolate desserts – the richness of chocolate and the sweet-tart Cassis are a match made in heaven.
Variations to Try
Kir Royale
- What’s different: Swap the wine for champagne or sparkling wine
- Why it works: The bubbles lift the flavor and make it perfect for celebrations
Cassis Spritz
- What’s different: Add a splash of soda water on top
- Why it works: Makes it extra light and refreshing, great for summer afternoons
Bramble-Inspired Cassis
- What’s different: Add 1 oz (30 ml) gin and 0.5 oz (15 ml) lemon juice, then drizzle Crème de Cassis over ice
- Why it works: You get more complexity and a bit of a citrus kick-it’s like a grown-up lemonade
Storage
While best enjoyed fresh, you can store the mixed wine and Crème de Cassis in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick stir before serving and garnish right before pouring.
Common Questions
What wine works best?
Go with a dry white-Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or even a dry Riesling. You want something crisp to balance the liqueur.
Can I make a pitcher?
Definitely. Just keep the 3:1 wine-to-Cassis ratio. Multiply as needed, chill, and serve with fresh garnishes.
Is Crème de Cassis very sweet?
Yes, it’s a sweet liqueur, so a little goes a long way. Start with less and add more if needed.
Can I use frozen berries as garnish?
Absolutely! Frozen blackberries or raspberries add a nice touch and help keep the drink cool.
What does Crème de Cassis taste like?
It’s rich, fruity, and sweet with a deep blackcurrant flavor. Think of it like a more intense berry syrup with a kick.
Is this drink strong?
Not really-since it’s mostly wine with a splash of liqueur, it’s light and easy-drinking.
Whether you’re new to cocktails or just looking for a simple, elegant drink to serve, the Cassis cocktail is a lovely place to start. It’s one of those recipes that’s easy to make but feels like a treat every single time.
