What is cassis fruit?

Cassis fruit is the French name given to the black currant berry. It is a member of the genus ribes and its taxonomic classification is ribes nigrum. There are approximately 150 shrub species in the genus ribes that consists of the two groups currants and gooseberries.

Black currants are edible berries that are found in the northern and central regions of Europe and parts in the northern areas of Asia. In Europe, the uses of cassis fruit include for making jams, wines, liqueurs, cordials, desserts and jellies. In Russia, the plant leaves are used to add flavor to tea or in vodka. Black currants also are a good source of vitamin C.