While Le Creuset’s Cassis and Aubergine are both rich purple hues, they differ primarily in their tone and vibrancy. The Aubergine is a deep, classic eggplant purple with muted, sophisticated undertones, while the Cassis is a brighter, more vivid purple inspired by the blackcurrant fruit, offering a bold pop of color.
Here’s a detailed comparison to help you choose the right shade of premium French cookware for your kitchen.
Le Creuset Aubergine
Aubergine is one of Le Creuset's most elegant and timeless colors, a deep and luxurious purple that replicates the skin of an eggplant. It's a popular choice for home cooks who appreciate sophisticated, classic shades that add a touch of warmth and richness without overpowering the kitchen's aesthetic.
- What it is: A deep, muted purple enameled cast iron cookware color from Le Creuset.
- Key features: Smooth, glossy enamel finish, exceptional heat retention and distribution, and a chip-resistant surface.
- Price: Premium pricing, with Dutch ovens starting around $220.
- Style: Classic, sophisticated, understated, and elegant. It complements traditional, minimalist, and neutral kitchen designs perfectly.
- Materials/Construction: The color is applied to Le Creuset's signature enameled cast iron, known for its durability and even cooking performance.
- Pros: Timeless and versatile shade, easy to coordinate with other kitchen decor, exudes a sense of luxury, and hides minor stains well.
- Cons: Less vibrant than other purples, and as a specific Le Creuset color, availability can fluctuate over time.
Le Creuset's Aubergine works well for those who desire a versatile, refined color that serves as a beautiful accent in both modern and classic kitchens.
Shop this product: lecreuset.com
Le Creuset Cassis
Cassis is a vibrant, eye-catching purple inspired by the French blackcurrant. This energetic shade is designed for those who want their cookware to make a statement, bringing a lively and bold energy to the stovetop and dining table.
- What it is: A bright and vivid purple enameled cast iron cookware color.
- Key features: Glossy, a high-impact finish that highlights the vibrant hue, along with the standard high-performance features of Le Creuset cookware.
- Price: Lines up with Le Creuset's premium price structure, typically starting over $200 for key pieces.
- Style: Bold, modern, and energetic. Perfect for eclectic kitchens or as a standout piece in a more minimalist setting.
- Materials/Construction: Identical high-quality enameled cast iron used across all Le Creuset color lines, ensuring top-tier performance and longevity.
- Pros: A beautiful statement color that adds personality, brightens up the kitchen, and still feels sophisticated.
- Cons: The bold color may not appeal to everyone or fit as seamlessly into all decor styles. Like other specific shades, its availability can be cyclical.
The Cassis shade is ideal for enthusiastic cooks who see their kitchen tools as an extension of their personality and want to inject fun and vibrancy into their space.
Shop this product: lecreuset.com
Le Creuset Aubergine vs. Cassis Comparison
Style & Aesthetic
While both are purples, their aesthetic impact is quite different. The Le Creuset Aubergine is deep and muted, creating a sense of classic, understated elegance. It blends well into sophisticated kitchens with neutral palettes, wood accents, or marble countertops. It’s a grounded, timeless color that adds richness without demanding to be the center of attention.
Cassis, conversely, is a true statement color. Its vibrant, juicy purple hue immediately draws the eye and injects energy and personality into a room. It thrives in modern or eclectic kitchens and acts as a brilliant focal point against white, gray, or even with other bold colors. While still elegant, Cassis is designed to stand out rather than blend in.
Materials & Quality
In terms of materials, construction, and cooking performance, there is no difference between cookware finished in Aubergine versus Cassis. Both feature Le Creuset's legendary enameled cast iron, made in France. This construction ensures superior heat retention and distribution for consistent cooking results, from slow braises to perfect sears. The durable enamel coating resists chipping, cracking, staining, and is easy to clean on both color options.
Price & Value
Similarly, the price point for these two colors is identical. Le Creuset prices its products based on the type of cookware and its size (e.g., a 5.5-quart Dutch oven), not the specific color. Therefore, you can choose between Aubergine and Cassis based purely on personal preference without any budget considerations between the two.
Product Availability & Range
Both colors have been available across a wide range of Le Creuset’s iconic products, including round and oval Dutch ovens, braisers, skillets, and bakeware. However, Le Creuset frequently introduces new colors and retires older ones. This means the availability of specific pieces in either Aubergine or Cassis can fluctuate. It’s always best to check the official Le Creuset website or authorized retailers for the current lineup.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both cookware colors are beautiful and perform identically, so your decision comes down to personal style and kitchen decor.
Choose the Aubergine if:
- You prefer timeless, classic colors that won't go out of style.
- Your kitchen aesthetic is traditional, minimalist, or features a neutral color palette.
- You want a sophisticated piece that adds warmth and richness without being overly bold.
- You value versatility and a shade that pairs easily with other decor.
Choose the Cassis if:
- You want your cookware to be a functional statement and a pop of vibrant color.
- Your kitchen has a modern, colorful, or eclectic design.
- You love bright, energetic hues that bring a sense of fun to your cooking space.
- You want a signature piece that stands out on the stove and the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between Le Creuset Cassis and Aubergine?
The main difference is the color's tone and intensity. Aubergine is a deep, muted, classic shade of eggplant purple, while Cassis is a much brighter, more vibrant blackcurrant-inspired purple.
Is one color more expensive than the other?
No. Le Creuset prices cookware based on the item type and size, not by the color. A 7.25-quart Dutch oven in Aubergine will cost the same as one in Cassis.
Are Aubergine and Cassis still being made by Le Creuset?
Le Creuset often rotates its color palette, retiring some shades and introducing new ones. The availability of both colors can vary, so it's best to check the official Le Creuset website or major retailers for the most current selection.
Which Le Creuset purple is more popular?
Both colors have a strong following. Aubergine is often considered a timeless classic due to its versatile, muted tone. Cassis appeals to those who prefer bolder, more contemporary colors.
Do Aubergine and Cassis have the same quality?
Yes, absolutely. The color is purely an aesthetic choice. Both are finished with the same high-quality, durable enamel on top of the same expertly crafted cast iron base, and both are made in France.
How do you clean Le Creuset enameled cookware?
For best results, wash by hand with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. While technically dishwasher-safe, hand washing helps preserve the enamel's shine over time. Avoid harsh cleaners and metal scouring pads.
Can you use this cookware on an induction cooktop?
Yes. All Le Creuset enameled cast iron cookware, including pieces in Aubergine and Cassis, is compatible with all stovetops, including induction.
What kitchen colors go well with Aubergine or Cassis?
Aubergine pairs beautifully with whites, creams, grays, and natural wood tones. Cassis stands out wonderfully against crisp white or dark gray backdrops and can also be complemented by shades of green, yellow, or teal for an eclectic look.
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