What Is Kir?

What Is Kir?

Kir is a common French cocktail made with white wine and blackcurrant liqueur (crème de cassis).  

Where Does Kir Come From?

Kir finds its roots in France’s Burgundy region. 

How Do You Make It?

Most Kir cocktails are made with approximately a 9:1 ratio of white wine and crème de cassis, that’s to say, 3 oz of white wine for every ⅓ oz of blackcurrant liqueur. However, not all white wine is created equal here. Kir cocktails call for Aligoté, a specific (and locally-produced) white wine from Burgundy. 
If you can’t find any Aligoté, we recommend seeking out a crisp, high-acid white from Burgundy (think Chablis). For a sweeter rendition of the cocktail, simply add a bit more liqueur, but do so slowly and with caution.  

How Do You Serve Kir?

Simply add the creme de cassis to the bottom of a Champagne flute (or white wine glass) and top off with white wine. Yes, it’s really that easy! 

What Is the History / Cultural Significance Behind Kir?

The Kir cocktail, formerly called the blanc-cassis, was named after Félix Kir, the former mayor of Dijon. The drink became quite popular during World war II, as it was often served to international guests at meetings and gatherings. Not only was Mayor Kir being hospitable in offering visitors a beverage – he was also promoting two local products while doing so!  

Kir also became popular during and after the war, as most of Burgundy’s red wine was confiscated by the Germans. It’s been said that Kir was formerly made with red wine, though with a surplus of regional white juice on hand, the locals adapted and created this delicious, flavor-packed cocktail.

What Are Some Famous Variations of the Classic Kir Cocktail?

The most popular variation of the Kir is the Kir Royal, which subs out still white wine for Champagne. Although originally made with blackcurrant liqueur, Kirs are now commonly enjoyed with a variety of flavored syrups, including raspberry (Chambord) or peach.  
Another popular variation is the Kir Breton, which replaces the recipe’s white wine with cider. Add a splash of Calvados and you’ve got yourself a Cidre Royal! 

When and How Is Kir Best Enjoyed?

Kirs are usually enjoyed as an apéritif prior to a big meal. Common snack pairings include quiches, gougeres, and other local Burgundian specialities.

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Your Kir

To make a perfect Kir start with the right ingredients. Not all crème de cassis are the same; some are sweeter, some have more berry flavor. Go for a high quality crème de cassis made from fresh ripe blackcurrants for a deep rich flavor. For the wine Aligoté is the traditional choice as it has crisp acidity and subtle fruit notes to balance the sweetness of the liqueur.

Kir in French Culture Today

Kir is still an aperitif loved by the French and enjoyed in homes and cafes all over the country. In Burgundy where it was born, Kir is served at weddings, local festivals and family gatherings as a symbol of welcome and regional pride. In Parisian bistros it’s on the menu and ordered during the French “apéro” hour, the time to socialise and relax before dinner. Outside of France Kir has found fans worldwide and is a lovely way to start a meal or to toast to good company.

Fun Facts About Kir

Did you know that Kir was once called “blanc-cassis” before being renamed after Félix Kir, the mayor of Dijon? Another fun fact: during the filming of Alfred Hitchcock’s “To Catch a Thief” Cary Grant was introduced to Kir and became an instant fan and helped to popularise the drink among the Hollywood elite. Today you’ll find regional variations of Kir all over France, such as the “Kir Normand” with Normandy cider and the “Kir Savoyard” with white wine from Savoie.

Some Nutritional Information About Kir

While Kir is a lovely aperitif, it’s good to know what’s in your glass. A standard Kir has around 150-200 calories, most of which come from the crème de cassis. If you’re watching your sugar intake, use less liqueur or a lower sugar version. Blackcurrants are full of antioxidants, vitamin C and anthocyanins which may help support the immune system and heart health. But as with any drink, moderation is key.