Now that we are in the hot summer months, more refreshing beverages are in demand, so how about something new, which is actually something old.

KIR is a cocktail made with a measure of creme de cassis (black currant liquor) topped up with white wine. There are a number of recipes for this drink, but I normally prefer one ounce of creme de cassis to six ounces of the white wine. Pour the creme de cassis into the wine glass and top up with the white wine, and serve cold, but without ice.

The drink is named after Felix Kir (1876 - 1968), mayor of Dijon in Burgundy, France, who popularized the drink during the post WWII era. He offered the drink at receptions to visiting delegations from other countries, and in addition to treating his international guests well, he was also promoting two vital products of the region. As time has gone by, another version of this drink, Kir Royal, has also become quite popular. This would be the same recipe, but Champagne or sparkling wine would be substituted for the white wine.

The normal white wine used in this drink is Chardonnay, but normally not an expensive one, since the power of this drink is to make inexpensive wine more palatable as well as more refreshing. A good choice would be Barefoot Cellars Chardonnay  For the Kir Royal, I would recommend a value priced sparkling wine such as the California Korbel.

If you really want to make your Kir, or Kir Royal extra special you, can substitute Chambord (black raspberry liquor). If that is a little too extra special , then I would recommend Dekuyper Creme de Cassis, which isn't quite as pricey.  Enjoy!

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