Cocktail
Bombay Cassis
The Bombay Cassis is a refreshing cocktail that combines the vibrant flavors of gin with the rich, fruity essence of blackcurrant liqueur. Topped with tonic water and garnished with a slice of lime, this delightful drink offers a perfect balance of sweetness and herbal notes, making it an ideal choice for warm evenings or festive gatherings. Enjoy it over ice for a crisp and invigorating experience.
- fruity
- herbal
- refreshing
- slightly tart
- Prep Time
- 5 min
- Glass
- Balloon Glass
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Yields
- 1 serving
The Bombay Cassis is a cocktail built on gin, celebrated for its fruity and herbal character — a consistently top-searched brunch. Whether you're after a reliable cocktail parties option or simply want to master a classic, this 5-minute recipe is straightforward enough for home bars yet refined enough to impress. Perfect if you've been searching for the best summer party.
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Ingredients
- Serves
- 1 serving
- Glass
- Balloon Glass
- Prep
- 5 min
- 50 mlGin
- 20 mlCreme de Cassis
- 15 mlFresh Lime Juice
- 75 mlGinger beer
- 1Lime
- 1 long stripGinger
Method
Preparation
- 01
Add the Bombay Sapphire, Crème de Cassis and lime juice to a balloon glass and swirl well to mix.
- 02
Fill the glass with good quality cubed ice.
- 03
Top up with chilled and freshly opened Fever-Tree Ginger Beer.
- 04
Gently stir to combine, top with a gently squeezed lime wedge and finish with a fresh ginger slice.
Origin
History & Origins
The Bombay Cassis represents the British colonial influence and the connection between Indian spices and European aperitif traditions, named after the historic Indian city of Bombay. This elegant cocktail emerged during the height of cocktail culture when bartenders sought to create drinks celebrating global trade and cultural exchange.
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Bartender’s Insight
Pro Tips
Use Bombay Sapphire gin for distinctive juniper and spice character
From Elena
crème de cassis provides sweetness and rich berry flavor
fresh lime juice adds brightness
stir with ice for a smooth, integrated flavor
serve in a chilled coupe glass with a lemon twist
At the Table
Perfect Pairings
Beyond the Classic
Variations
Bombay Cassis Fizz
A fizzy version topped with soda water or sparkling wine for lighter refreshment
Bombay Cassis Sour
incorporates fresh lemon juice and egg white foam for a silky sour variation
Tropical Bombay Cassis
adds tropical fruit juice for a more fruity, contemporary interpretation
Questions
Frequently Asked
- The Bombay Cassis has a flavor profile that is fruity, herbal, refreshing, slightly tart. It is crafted to balance these characteristics into a harmonious, satisfying drink that appeals to a wide range of palates.
- The Bombay Cassis is ideal for cocktail parties, brunch gatherings, festive celebrations. Its flavor profile and presentation make it a versatile choice that works equally well as a social cocktail or a relaxed evening drink.
- Yes, there are several ways to adapt a Bombay Cassis. If you cannot source Gin, look for a similar alternative that matches its flavor profile. Keep in mind that substitutions may alter the balance of the cocktail, so start with a smaller quantity and adjust to taste. The variations section above lists popular alternatives bartenders use.
- Some of the most popular Bombay Cassis variations include Bombay Cassis Fizz, Bombay Cassis Sour, Tropical Bombay Cassis. Each variation puts a unique twist on the original recipe while retaining the essential character of the classic cocktail.
- The Bombay Cassis is traditionally served in a Balloon Glass. Using the right glassware is important because it affects the aroma, temperature retention, and overall drinking experience. If you do not have a Balloon Glass on hand, a similar shaped glass will work.
- Yes, a mocktail version of the Bombay Cassis is possible. Replace the base spirit with a non-alcoholic spirit alternative (there are many quality options available) and keep all other components the same. The result will capture much of the original's flavor profile while being suitable for guests who prefer alcohol-free options.
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Rail Splitter
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Vesuvio
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Similar Flavor Profiles
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Loch Lomond
The Loch Lomond cocktail is a refreshing blend that captures the essence of the Scottish Highlands, combining smooth Scotch whisky with zesty citrus notes and a hint of herbal complexity. Typically garnished with fresh herbs or a twist of lemon, this drink offers a perfect balance of warmth and brightness, making it an ideal choice for whisky lovers seeking a unique twist on classic flavors. Enjoy it as a sophisticated aperitif or a delightful companion to a cozy evening.
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The Ace cocktail is a refreshing blend of gin, elderflower liqueur, and fresh lemon juice, creating a vibrant and zesty flavor profile. Garnished with a sprig of mint and a twist of lemon peel, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, making it the perfect drink for any occasion. Enjoy it chilled to elevate your spirits!
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