Learn how to make a beautiful Kir Impérial ... this delicious Chambord and Champagne Cocktail is a fun, festive drink that's ready to enjoy in minutes!
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There is just something about sipping a fancy cocktail that's feels so special and fun , especially when it's also easy to make!
Which is why I love the Kir Impérial ... I mean, the name alone sounds fancy, right? However, you only need two ingredients and five minutes (or less) to make this gorgeous French drink: Chambord and Champagne!
This pretty golden-pink Champagne Cocktail is the ideal treat yourself kind of drink. It's perfect for unwinding after a long week, getting together with friends, or celebrating a momentous occasion, like wedding and baby showers, birthdays, Mother's Day, or Valentine's Day.
Ready to start sipping? Then keep reading for all the details!
What is a Kir Cocktail?
This bubbly drink is a Kir, a popular French cocktail that's typically served as an apéritif. It's perfect for serving with light appetizers or a snack before a meal.
A classic Kir is made with crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur) and white wine (traditionally, Bourgogne Aligoté). However, there are many variations on this standard drink ... here are a few :
- Kir Royale - crème de cassis + champagne
- Kir Pétillant - crème de cassis + sparkling wine
- Kir Normand (or Breton) - crème de cassis + Normandy (or Breton) cider
- Cidre Royal - crème de cassis + cider + calvados
- Kir Pêche - peach liqueur + white wine
- Kir Berrichon - crème de mûre (blackberry liqueur) + red wine
- Kir Beer - crème de cassis + beer
For this recipe, you will be pairing champagne with Chambord (raspberry liqueur) to make a Kir Impérial. You may also see this drink referred as a Chambord Royale or even a French Mimosa. Whatever you call it though, you're going to LOVE this gorgeous pink Champagne Cocktail!
Ingredients
The ingredients for this drink are simple and delicious ... here's what you'll need:
- Chambord Liqueur
- Champagne
- Fresh Raspberries
To avoid a cloying drink, make sure to choose a dry champagne for this drink. For best results, select one that is labeled Brut or Extra Brut. You may also use sparkling wine or Prosecco for this drink, which is what I had on hand and used here.
You will also need a jigger to measure the liqueur, as well as a champagne glass to serve the drink. I recently purchased these basic champagne glasses after breaking the last of my fancy ones. They're perfect for occasions where you don't want to risk using anything too precious. A coupe glass would also work.
What is Chambord?
Chambord is a black raspberry liqueur that's made in the Loire Valley south of Paris from raspberries, blackberries, Madagascar vanilla, Moroccan citrus peel, honey, and cognac.
Is Crème de Cassis the same as Chambord?
Crème de cassis and Chambord are not the same thing. Chambord is a black raspberry liqueur, while crème de cassis is made from blackcurrant. Although they taste different, you can use these liqueurs somewhat interchangeably. Technically speaking though, you would have Kir Royale if you make this recipe with crème de cassis.
How to Make a Kir Impérial
This impressive drink couldn't be easier to make! Simply add one-half to one full ounce of Chambord to a champagne glass, then top it off with four ounces of champagne or sparkling wine.
While most of my cocktail recipes call for exact measurements, I recommend adding Chambord to taste for this one. It's very sweet, and how much you'll need will depend on how sweet your champagne is, as well as your own personal preference.
Start with ½-ounce, then add more if desired. Less is more ... the finished drink shouldn't be overly sweet! And by the time you're ready for round two, you'll have mastered the exact proportions.
Tip: Make sure to add the liqueur first. This will ensure that your drink mixes properly.
The only thing left is the garnish, and it's just as easy as the cocktail itself.
Simply drop a fresh raspberry into the glass, then start sipping. À ta santé!
More Cocktails You'll Love
Looking for more memorable cocktails? Try one of these recipes next:
- French Martini - Another gorgeous drink that uses rasperry liqueur.
- Raspberry French 75 - Fun twist on the classic!
- Raspberry Bellini - A delicious drink that's perfect for brunch or anytime.
- Mojito - A classic for a reason and so easy to make!
- Irish Coffee - This fun drink is sure to perk you up.
- Rum Old Fashioned - A twist on an old favorite!
Kir Impérial (Chambord and Champagne)
Ingredients
- ½ to 1 ounce Chambord Liqueur
- 4 ounces champagne
- 1 raspberry
Equipment
- Champagne Glass
Instructions
- Add ½ to 1 ounce Chambord (to taste) to a champagne glass.
- Top off drink with champagne.
- Garnish with a raspberry, then serve immediately. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
Nutrition
