Sometimes, less really is more. The Kir Cocktail is a refined, low-alcohol cocktail that brings together dry white wine and crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur) in perfect harmony. Born in Burgundy, beloved in Paris, and now sipped in Los Angeles by design lovers, foodies, and Francophiles who appreciate a slow start to a long night of drinks.
Welcome to LA's answer to the French aperitif hour.
Ingredients For The Kir Cocktail (One Serving)
- 4 oz Dry White Wine (Bourgogne Aligoté is traditional, but LA swaps include Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris)
- ½ oz Crème de Cassis
- Glass: White wine glass
- Garnish: Optional lemon twist or edible flower
LA Local Tip: Party Shakers often uses local wines from Santa Barbara, Paso Robles, or Malibu Coast for a California spin. For crème de cassis, we source artisanal liqueurs or even sub in blackberry or boysenberry liqueur for seasonal flavor changes.
How to Make the Kir, LA Style
1. Pour the crème de cassis into a wine glass.
It goes in first to create that signature blush at the base.
- Slowly top with chilled dry white wine.
Tilt the glass to avoid mixing too aggressively—you want a natural gradient. - Garnish gently if desired.
A lemon twist enhances brightness; edible flowers add visual pop for upscale events. - No stirring.
Let guests swirl or sip naturally—this drink evolves as they drink it.
Why the Kir Works in LA's Wine-Focused Scene
LA has fully embraced the low-ABV lifestyle, and the Kir fits that mood perfectly. Light, fragrant, and food-friendly, it's ideal for:
- Garden weddings in Pasadena
- Art gallery openings in Culver City
- Sunset tastings in Malibu
- Aperitif hours at French restaurants from Silver Lake to Santa Monica
It's also ideal for day-drinking events where guests want flavor without the fog.
FAQs
Is this the same as a Kir Royale?
No. A Kir Cocktail uses white wine. A Kir Royale uses Champagne or sparkling wine. We offer both at Party Shakers.
Can I use rosé or sparkling wine instead?
Yes. Party Shakers offers custom twists like the "Kir Rosé" and "Kir Pétillant" with dry rosé or California bubbly for LA events.
Is it too sweet?
Not if you balance it properly. We use high-acid, dry wines and minimal cassis for a balanced pour—not a sugar bomb.
Book the Cocktail That Whispers Elegance – Kir in LA
Light, lovely, and French-approved—the Kir Cocktail is the perfect pour for welcoming guests, setting the tone, or elevating a warm afternoon. Party Shakers knows how to let subtlety shine and also offer other drinks.
✅ Available across LA County: West LA, Silver Lake, Pacific Palisades, Echo Park
✅ Optional Kir Bar: Royale, Rosé, and California White variations
✅ Ideal for low-ABV menus, daytime weddings, and European-style events
✅ Served by Party Shakers mixologists who know it's not about more—it's about just enough
Book Party Shakers – Serve the Kir and Let Your LA Event Sip Like a Parisian