How to Make a Kir Royale

How to Make a Kir Royale. A variant of a Kir, named for the French mayor who sweetened his white wine with a black currant liqueur, the Royale replaces wine with Champagne for a simple but elegant pleasure. You will need Champagne 1/2 oz. black currant liqueur A champagne flute and a long spoon. Step 1. Chill the flute by filling it with ice and water and setting it aside for a few minutes, or by placing it in the fridge or freezer a couple hours ahead of time. Step 2. Toss out the ice and water and add the liqueur. The proportions of liqueur to Champagne is traditionally about one to five—slightly less for a drier cocktail, more for a sweeter one. Step 3. Slowly fill the glass about ¾ full with champagne. Step 4. Gently stir the cocktail few times with the bar spoon once the champagne settles. For a layered cocktail, add the Champagne to the glass first and then gently pour in the liqueur, which will settle to the bottom. Step 5. Top off the glass with a bit more Champagne, and serve. Did you know Black currant liqueur, like so many other spirits, was first produced by French monks. It was used to treat jaundice.