How Netflix’s ‘Emily In Paris’ Inspired Chamère’s Kir Royale Canned Cocktail

When Netflix’s Emily in Paris introduced viewers to the Kir Royale during the third season of the show, the cocktail gained newfound visibility among audiences far beyond France.

Now, Chamère, a playful spin on the fictional champagne house Champère on the show, has brought the classic French cocktail to the ready-to-drink (RTD) market in the United States, furthering the influence of pop culture on beverage trends.

“This launch wouldn’t have been possible without Emily in Paris and her brilliant idea during the show to create a Kir Royale in cans,” says Enzo Visone, CEO of Quintessential Brands Group, the company behind Chamère, via email. “At Quintessential Brands, we helped Paramount bring this idea to life.”

This collaboration underscores the rapid growth of canned cocktails, a segment increasingly driven by the influence of television and streaming content. The global RTD cocktails market is expected to reach $1.1 billion in 2023, according to Cognitive Market Research, with an anticipated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.20% through 2030.

Pop Culture’s Role

The influence of pop culture on consumer choices is not new. Just as Sex and the City elevated the Cosmopolitan or Mad Men revitalized the Old Fashioned, the minds behind Chamère believe Emily in Paris can propel the Kir Royale into mainstream interest.

“Popular shows sell more than drinks—they sell a lifestyle,” says Visone. He draws parallels between the series’ impact on French cocktail culture and James Bond’s enduring association with the martini. “TV, celebrity endorsements and cultural moments have the power to transform classic cocktails overnight.”

A 2023 survey by entertainment firm BENlabs found that 63% of respondents reported trying a new drink because they saw it in a TV show or movie. Such visibility, combined with the accessibility of RTD cocktails, helps transform once-niche beverages into everyday staples.

Chamère’s branding intentionally mirrors the essence of Emily in Paris. Visone emphasizes that the design incorporates carefully selected colors and sophisticated label finishes to evoke Parisian elegance. The product aims to capture not just the taste but also the aesthetic appeal that aligns with its inspiration.

This attention to detail reflects a broader trend in beverage marketing, where packaging and presentation are as vital as flavor.

Recreating The Cocktail At Home

The Kir Royale, traditionally made by combining champagne with crème de cassis, exudes a sophistication that Chamère aimed to preserve in its canned version. Visone describes the canned cocktail as blending Parisian elegance with a playful charm, attributes inspired directly by the series.

For those interested in crafting their own Kir Royale at home, the recipe is straightforward. Combine champagne and crème de cassis, stirring gently to retain the bubbles. According to Visone, the ritual of mixing the drink offers a moment to connect, like “whispering your life secrets to your best friend.”

To elevate the experience, small tweaks can make a significant impact. These adjustments allow drinkers to maintain the classic flavor while adding personal touches.

“Try adding a twist of lemon peel or a fresh raspberry,” suggests Visone. “For special occasions, serve in a champagne flute to capture the authentic French sophistication.”

Chamère’s canned Kir Royale also encourages customization. Visone notes that consumers increasingly seek convenience without sacrificing creativity.

“Many are experimenting with fresh garnishes, infused ice cubes and seasonal fruits to create their own signature versions,” he explains. Social media has amplified this trend, with users sharing inventive ways to personalize RTD cocktails. Some bartenders and mixologists are now incorporating RTDs into larger batch cocktails for events, broadening their use beyond the individual serving.

As consumers continue to embrace RTDs, products like Chamère’s canned Kir Royale represent a merging of traditional cocktail culture with modern convenience. Whether enjoyed directly from the can or poured into a glass and garnished for a customized experience, the Kir Royale’s appeal lies in its versatility.

For Chamère, the collaboration with Emily in Paris marks more than a product launch—It demonstrates the enduring power of storytelling in shaping what we drink and how we drink it. As Visone puts it, “This is more than a cocktail—it’s an invitation to bring a little Parisian sophistication into your everyday life.”