For our summer solstice celebration I was feeling sentimental and so decided to lean on history.

Earlier this year we tried the Kir cocktail, which is crème de cassis with white wine. The Kir Royale ups the ante by using Champagne in place of wine. In the communopoly, however, we tend to prefer cava to Champagne, so my choice was clear.

Here’s our take on the Kir Royale:

• 1 oz crème de cassis
• 5 oz Freixenet Cordon Negro Brut, well chilled

Pour the crème de cassis into the bottom of a champagne flute. Top with Freixenet (or the cava of your choice). Serve immediately.

The verdict: The Freixenet brut is very dry, almost sugarless, which suits the crème de cassis well. The fruit really sang in my glass, and the bubbles added a celebratory sparkle. Definitely a keeper!

Happy Solstice, from us to you. May the summer bring you infinite reasons to raise a glass in joy and good cheer.