Blackcurrant vs. Cassis — What's the Difference?

Blackcurrant is a small, tart berry used in culinary preparations, while Cassis, a French word, often denotes a liqueur made from these berries. Blackcurrants have a distinct, sharp flavor and are rich in vitamins, while Cassis is sweet, syrupy, and used to flavor cocktails and desserts. Both the fruit and the liqueur are popular in Europe, with blackcurrants being used in a variety of recipes from jams to juices, and Cassis being a notable ingredient in drinks like Kir and Kir Royale.

The term "blackcurrant" refers directly to the fruit itself, which is grown on shrubs and is known for its health benefits. Cassis, on the other hand, is the French term for blackcurrant when referring to the liqueur; however, it can sometimes also be used to refer to the fruit in a culinary context. While blackcurrants are versatile and can be eaten raw or cooked, Cassis is typically consumed as a beverage additive, bringing a fruity and sweet dimension to drinks.

In terms of cultivation, blackcurrants are a hardy fruit grown in cooler climates and have multiple varieties, each with a unique taste profile. Cassis liqueur originated in France and traditionally uses blackcurrants from the Burgundy region, indicating not just a product but a region-specific delicacy. While blackcurrants can be found fresh, frozen, or in various processed forms, Cassis is primarily available in its liquid form.

When discussing health benefits, blackcurrant berries are noted for their high vitamin C content and antioxidants. In contrast, Cassis, being an alcoholic beverage, does not share these health properties but is praised for its deep, concentrated flavor of blackcurrants. Both blackcurrants and Cassis can be considered specialty items outside of Europe due to import restrictions and regional growing conditions.

The terminology can differ across languages and regions; for instance, "blackcurrant" is the common term in English-speaking countries, while "Cassis" might be more frequently used in French-speaking regions, but both can occasionally be used interchangeably depending on context. When someone talks about blackcurrants, they might be referring to the berry in any form, but when they mention Cassis, they're typically speaking of the liqueur derived from the blackcurrant fruit.