A dry vermouth meets the dark sweetness of crème de cassis and is lightened up with sparkling soda water. The Blackcurrant Cocktail is no sweet fruit cocktail, but a balanced aperitif with a tart-fruity depth. The blackberries in the garnish not only add color, but also a slightly earthy note that complements the cassis flavor. Perfect for the early evening when you need something light yet complex.
And this is what you need for the Blackcurrant Cocktail
4 cl dry vermouth (e.g. French Dry Vermouth)
2 cl crème de cassis
6 cl soda water
3–4 fresh blackberries (for garnish)
What matters
The trick lies in the crème de cassis: not all liqueurs are the same. A high-quality cassis has a deep, almost earthy sweetness reminiscent of blackcurrants, whereas cheap versions often taste only of sugar. If you taste the liqueur yourself, it should not be cloyingly sweet, but rather have a slight acidity and an almost wine-like depth. If you can’t find a good cassis, you can also use a high-quality blackberry liqueur – it has a similar, but slightly lighter fruit note. The blackberries in the garnish are no coincidence: they enhance the cassis flavors and give the drink a natural freshness.
Variations
- Blackcurrant Spritz — Replace the vermouth with 3 cl Prosecco and reduce the soda water to 3 cl. The drink becomes lighter and more effervescent while retaining the cassis note. Garnish with an orange slice for a citrusy freshness.
- Herbal Blackcurrant — Add 1 cl gin to introduce an herbal note. A London Dry Gin with juniper and citrus aromas works particularly well. Reduce the vermouth to 3 cl to maintain the balance.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use other fruits instead of blackberries?
Yes, but blackberries work best because they enhance the cassis flavors. Alternatively, blackcurrants or blueberries can be used, but they are less intense. Red berries such as raspberries or strawberries change the flavor too much and make the drink sweeter.
Do I have to use fresh blackberries or can I use frozen ones?
Fresh blackberries are ideal because they release their juice better and have a firmer texture. Frozen berries work in emergencies, but they quickly become mushy and discolor the drink unevenly. If you use frozen berries, let them thaw briefly before adding them to the glass.
Can I make the drink without soda water?
Technically yes, but then it will be much heavier and less refreshing. The soda water lightens up the drink and makes it effervescent. If you leave it out, reduce the amount of crème de cassis to 1.5 cl to maintain the balance.
