Kirschwasser; Or Kirsch, originates from the Black Forest region of Germany. Kirsch is a clear, unaged fruit brandy distilled from cherries.
The ripe cherries are crushed to open the fruit and fermented on the pulp and pits. Crushing, fermenting, and pressing the whole fruit imparts a distinctive bitter almond undertone to the beverage. The most traditional way of consumption is “neat” (no mix), or with a sliver of ice. Kirsch can also be used in cocktails such as a “Kirsch Fizz” or as an addition to baked goods.