Blackcurrant liqueur, also known by its French name "crème de cassis," is a sweet, dark red liqueur made from blackcurrants. These berries are known for their deep, purple hue and are harvested to produce a richly flavored concoction. The production process generally involves soaking the berries in alcohol, sometimes with additional sugar, which extracts their flavor, color, and creates a syrupy liquid.
The scent profile of blackcurrant liqueur is one of the key aspects of its allure. It prominently features the lush and intense aroma of ripe blackcurrants, characterized by a balance of sweet and tart notes. The primary scent is deeply fruity and berry-like, with a specific emphasis on the crisp and somewhat earthy notes that are typical of blackcurrants. This can be accompanied by hints of other dark fruits like cherries and plums, depending on the specific recipe and production method.
Additionally, blackcurrant liqueur might carry subtle undertones of herbal or floral notes, emanating from the natural characteristics of the berry itself or from other botanicals used during distillation. These complexities make it not only delicious to taste but also a delight to smell, often used in cocktails to add depth and rich fruitiness. Over time, as the liqueur matures, these scents can deepen, becoming more intricate and refined.