The Langham Afternoon Tea & Wedgwood Kir Royale is a classic French cocktail that adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to any occasion. Made with crème de cassis, a rich blackcurrant liqueur, and topped with crisp, effervescent Champagne, this drink is both sweet and tart, with a refreshing finish.Traditionally served at afternoon teas, high-end brunches, and celebratory gatherings, this cocktail pairs perfectly with delicate pastries, tea sandwiches, and scones. The addition of fresh berries and a lemon twist enhances the visual appeal while complementing the deep berry flavors of the crème de cassis. Whether you’re toasting to a special moment or simply elevating your tea-time experience, the Wedgwood Kir Royale is the epitome of refined indulgence.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 oz crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur)
- 4 oz chilled Champagne (or sparkling wine)
- Fresh blackberries or raspberries, for garnish
- Lemon twist (optional, for extra elegance)
Directions:
- Chill the glass: Place a Champagne flute in the refrigerator or freezer for a few minutes before serving.
- Add the crème de cassis: Pour 1 oz of crème de cassis into the chilled flute.
- Top with Champagne: Slowly pour in the Champagne to preserve its bubbles.
- Garnish and serve: Drop a fresh blackberry or raspberry into the glass and add a lemon twist for a sophisticated touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this classic, elegant cocktail!
Prep Time: 2 minutes | Total Time: 2 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal | Servings: 1 cocktail
The History and Elegance of the Langham Afternoon Tea & Wedgwood Kir Royale
The Kir Royale is a luxurious twist on the classic Kir cocktail, a French aperitif traditionally made with dry white wine and crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur). The original Kir was named after Canon Félix Kir, a French priest and resistance fighter who became the mayor of Dijon after World War II. He was known for serving this drink to guests, helping to promote the famous blackcurrant liqueur of Burgundy. The Kir Royale is an upgraded version of the original, swapping white wine for Champagne or sparkling wine, making it ideal for elegant occasions such as afternoon tea, brunches, or celebrations. Over time, the Kir Royale has become a staple in high-end dining and luxury tea services, including the famous Langham Afternoon Tea, which pairs this exquisite cocktail with delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and fine teas.
Why You Should Try the Langham Afternoon Tea & Wedgwood Kir Royale
If you love sophisticated, effortless cocktails, the Wedgwood Kir Royale is a must-try. Here’s why:
1. Effortlessly Elegant and Luxurious
- Made with just two ingredients, this cocktail is incredibly easy to prepare yet feels indulgent and refined.
- The deep berry color combined with Champagne’s golden bubbles creates a stunning visual presentation.
2. A Perfect Pairing for Afternoon Tea or Brunch
- This cocktail complements delicate pastries, macarons, and scones, making it a perfect addition to an afternoon tea experience.
- The slight sweetness of crème de cassis balances beautifully with the buttery and flaky textures of tea-time treats.
3. Refreshing and Light, Yet Flavorful
- Unlike heavier cocktails, the Kir Royale is light and refreshing, making it ideal for daytime celebrations or warm-weather gatherings.
- The blackcurrant liqueur adds a rich, fruity depth without overpowering the Champagne’s crispness.
4. A Drink with a Story
- This cocktail carries a rich French history, making it an intriguing drink to serve at special occasions.
- It is a symbol of elegance, refinement, and celebratory spirit.
5. Simple to Customize
- You can adjust the amount of crème de cassis to make the cocktail sweeter or drier based on preference.
- Experiment with different Champagnes or sparkling wines to find your perfect balance of flavors.
What Makes the Langham Afternoon Tea & Wedgwood Kir Royale Special?
1. The Use of Crème de Cassis
- Unlike other fruit liqueurs, crème de cassis has a deep, rich, and slightly tart blackcurrant flavor, which pairs beautifully with Champagne’s effervescence.
- It’s not overly sweet, making it a great option for those who enjoy fruity yet balanced cocktails.
2. The Perfect Ratio of Ingredients
- The classic Kir Royale recipe uses a 1:4 ratio of crème de cassis to Champagne, creating a well-balanced cocktail that is neither too strong nor too sweet.
3. A Stunning Presentation
- The deep red hue of the blackcurrant liqueur settles beautifully at the bottom of the glass, gradually mixing with the Champagne’s golden bubbles as you sip.
- A fresh blackberry, raspberry, or lemon twist adds an elegant finishing touch.
Tips for Making the Perfect Langham Afternoon Tea & Wedgwood Kir Royale
1. Choose a High-Quality Champagne or Sparkling Wine
- Brut Champagne (dry Champagne) works best because it balances the sweetness of crème de cassis.
- If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, go for a demi-sec Champagne or prosecco.
2. Serve in a Chilled Glass
- Chill your Champagne flute in the refrigerator before serving for an extra crisp and refreshing drink.
3. Pour Champagne Slowly
- To preserve the bubbles and avoid overflowing, always pour the Champagne gently over the crème de cassis.
4. Adjust Sweetness to Your Taste
- For a stronger blackcurrant flavor, add a little more crème de cassis.
- If you prefer a drier cocktail, use just a splash of liqueur.
5. Experiment with Garnishes
- Fresh berries (blackberries, raspberries, or blueberries) enhance the fruitiness of the drink.
- A lemon twist or edible flowers add an extra touch of sophistication.
How to Serve the Langham Afternoon Tea & Wedgwood Kir Royale
1. As Part of a Luxury Afternoon Tea Experience
- This cocktail pairs beautifully with:
- Macarons
- Lemon tarts
- Tea sandwiches
- Scones with clotted cream
2. As a Welcome Drink for Special Occasions
- Serve at weddings, bridal showers, or anniversaries for an elegant toast.
3. For a Romantic Dinner or Date Night
- The deep red color and Champagne bubbles make this an ideal Valentine’s Day drink.
4. As a Brunch Cocktail
- A refreshing alternative to mimosas, perfect for pairing with eggs benedict, fresh fruit, or smoked salmon bagels.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Can I prepare this cocktail in advance?
- It’s best made fresh, but you can pre-pour the crème de cassis into glasses and add Champagne just before serving.
- How should I store crème de cassis?
- Keep it in a cool, dark place (or refrigerate after opening) to maintain its rich flavor.
- What Champagne should I use?
- If using a budget-friendly option, Cava or Prosecco also work well.
FAQs About the Wedgwood Kir Royale
Can I make this cocktail non-alcoholic?
Yes! Substitute the Champagne with sparkling white grape juice or non-alcoholic sparkling wine.
What’s the best brand of crème de cassis to use?
Look for authentic French crème de cassis, such as:
- Mathilde Cassis Liqueur
- Lejay Cassis
- Giffard Crème de Cassis
Is this cocktail very sweet?
It has a slight sweetness from the crème de cassis, but the Champagne keeps it light and balanced.
Can I use a different fruit liqueur instead of crème de cassis?
Yes! Try:
- Crème de framboise (raspberry liqueur) for a Raspberry Royale
- Crème de pêche (peach liqueur) for a Peach Royale
Conclusion
The Langham Afternoon Tea & Wedgwood Kir Royale is a timeless, luxurious cocktail that embodies sophistication, elegance, and indulgence. With its vibrant color, crisp bubbles, and deep berry flavors, it’s the perfect drink for afternoon tea, brunches, or any special occasion. Whether you’re toasting with friends, hosting a bridal shower, or simply elevating your tea experience, this cocktail is a simple yet stunning addition to any gathering. With just two ingredients and a few minutes of preparation, you can enjoy a bar-quality drink at home that looks and tastes exquisite. So, next time you’re planning a fancy afternoon tea or an elegant celebration, don’t forget to serve the Wedgwood Kir Royale—a cocktail that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Cheers!