Certainly! Here’s the English translation of your detailed introduction to Lejay Crème de Cassis de Dijon:
🍇 Introduction to Lejay Crème de Cassis de Dijon
1. Origin & History
Lejay-Lagoute was established in 1841 in Dijon, Burgundy, by Auguste‑Denis Lagoute, the inventor of the very first Crème de Cassis recipe.
Lejay is one of only four producers authorized to use the protected label “Cassis de Dijon”, which holds EU Geographic Indication (GI) status.
2. Ingredients & Production Process
The liqueur is crafted using two varieties of blackcurrant:
- Noir de Bourgogne (55%) – intensely aromatic, native to Burgundy
- Black Down (45%) – softer, rounder flavor
In addition, Lejay infuses blackcurrant buds, a distinctive method that adds aromatic complexity.
Production process:
- Maceration takes place over 8–10 weeks at room temperature.
- The resulting unfiltered natural juice is then blended with sugar and bud infusion, creating a rich, smooth, and concentrated flavor profile.
3. Tasting Notes
Attribute | Description |
---|---|
Alcohol Content | Approx. 18% ABV (~36° Proof) |
Color | Deep, dark red – nearly opaque |
Aroma | Fresh black fruits, cassis jam, hints of cherry and plum |
Taste | Smooth and dense, mildly tart at first, with a jammy and creamy mouthfeel |
Finish | Long and lingering, with notes of cassis jam and a touch of dryness |
4. Serving Suggestions & Signature Cocktails
🍷 Classic Cocktails:
- Kir – Mix 1 part Crème de Cassis with 4 parts dry white wine (like Aligoté or Riesling).
- Kir Royale – Substitute sparkling wine (Champagne or Crémant de Bourgogne) for an elegant touch.
🍸 Modern Mixes:
- El Diablo – A refreshing mix of tequila, Crème de Cassis, and ginger beer
- Whisky & Cassis – A modern pairing that adds fruity depth to light whiskies
- Cassis Beer – A surprising yet balanced mix with pale ales or wheat beers
5. Why Choose Lejay?
- The original Crème de Cassis — Lejay is the historical pioneer of this liqueur category.
- Uses only authentic Burgundy blackcurrants, purchasing about 10% of all cassis production in France to ensure quality and origin.
- Recognized as an “Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant” — a label awarded by the French government for excellence in heritage craftsmanship and tradition.
✅ Quick Summary
Lejay Crème de Cassis de Dijon is a premium blackcurrant liqueur from Dijon — the birthplace of Crème de Cassis. Its deep ruby color, velvety jam-like texture, and balanced sweet–tart profile make it a perfect choice for:
- Sipping neat or over ice
- Crafting classic cocktails like Kir or Kir Royale
- Enhancing modern recipes with a fruity twist
🍹 Serving Tips:
- Serve chilled or over ice
- Kir – 1 part cassis to 4 parts dry white wine
- Kir Royale – cassis topped with sparkling wine or Champagne
- Creative mixes – try with whisky or beer for a unique cassis experience