Kirsch

Kirsch (kirschwasser) is a clear, colourless fruit brandy distilled from fermented cherries — traditionally morello-type cherries including the stones, which lend its characteristic faint bitter-almond note from trace amygdalin-derived benzaldehyde. A staple of confectionery and dessert production, it flavours Black Forest gâteau, chocolate fillings, fondants, fruit salads and cheese fondue. Because distillation concentrates both flavour and alcohol (typically around 40% ABV), only small amounts are needed for flavouring; its alcoholic strength, cherry origin and labelling must comply with spirit-drink regulations (in the EU it is a protected fruit-spirit category). Quality hinges on sound fruit, clean fermentation free of off-flavours, and careful distillation cuts.