57 Down
NYT Daily • August 31, 2025
___ royale (cocktail)
Answer:
KIR
Hint:
Not available
Explanation:
This clue is looking for a classic French cocktail made with white wine and a splash of crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur). The blank suggests a short word, and "KIR" fits perfectly—it’s named after Félix Kir, a former mayor of Dijon who popularized the drink. The term "royale" hints at a fancier version where champagne replaces the wine, but the base name stays the same. Think of it as the elegant cousin of a wine spritzer.