Blackcurrant Liqueur
also known as Crème de cassis
What is Blackcurrant Liqueur?
Blackcurrant liqueur, also known as crème de cassis, is a liqueur of French origin. Made from blackcurrant juice, this dark red liqueur has a very sweet taste with strong notes of berry. The aroma is lush and fruity.
- It is most known for use in Kir cocktails, but can also be used in other cocktails or even consumed separately.
- Some popular cocktails using this ingredient are Blackcurrant Puff, Londoner Martini, Vladimir, Kir Royale, Pink Russian, and Le Doudou Galactique.
Some popular blackcurrant liqueur brands include:
- Lejay
- Merlet
- Gabriel Boudier
- L’Heritier Guyot
Origin of black currant liqueur
This liqueur originated in France and is still mostly produced there. It was originally invented in Burgundy in 1841. However, this type of liqueur had previously existed for centuries in the region, and was known as ratafia. The word referred to any liquor made from fruit.
Nutrition
Nutritional profile for blackcurrant liqueur (1 glass):
Consuming too much blackcurrant can lead to several health problems, such as increase in the risk of heart disease, liver cirrhosis, pancreatitis, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, cancer, as well as obesity, depression, and aging. It has a high sugar content and around 15 percent ABV. Therefore, it is best to consume this liqueur responsibly and in moderation.
Commercial production
The main ingredients required for preparing blackcurrant liqueur are blackcurrants, neutral grain spirit, and sugar. The blackcurrants are thoroughly washed and the stems are picked out. Next, the fruit is crushed and run through a sieve to squeeze out the juice. Then, the juice is steeped in a neutral alcohol base and left to macerate. After that, sugar is added and the liquid is allowed to blend well into a syrup before bottling.
An unopened bottle can last for several years. Once opened, blackcurrant liqueur must be stored in a cool and dry place, where it will last for several months.
Black currant liqueur recipes
This liqueur is mostly used to prepare cocktails. It may also be used in baked goods to impart a rich flavor. Here are a few recipes:
- Aviation Cocktail
- Kir Royale
- Chicken with Blackcurrant Sauce
- Baltic Blush
- Oven Braised Beef
- Chocolate Cassis Cake
- Blackcurrant Cheesecake
- Red Velvet Bundt Cake
- Elderberry Tart
- Blueberry Rice Pudding
FDA regulations
All alcohol related products are regulated by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) in the US. Liqueur is defined as flavored spirits mixed with fruits, flowers, plants, or juices. There is no specific standard of identity for blackcurrant liqueur.
In France, laws of appellation rules the production and the region of origin must be mentioned on the label. The ABV must be at least 15 percent. No added fruit juice, coloring, or flavoring is permitted.
References
Burgundy’s legendary blackcurrant liqueur, Cellar Tours, https://www.cellartours.com/blog/france/what-is-creme-de-cassis-liqueur
Effects Of Alcohol, Alcohol Rehab Guide, Recovery Worldwide, https://www.alcoholrehabguide.org/alcohol/effects/
Arranz, Sara et al. “Wine, beer, alcohol and polyphenols on cardiovascular disease and cancer.” Nutrients vol. 4,7 (2012): 759-81. doi:10.3390/nu4070759, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3407993/