When it comes to drinks made from cherries, there are a few different options to consider. The most common and well-known is cherry liqueur, which is often referred to as cherry brandy. This is a sweet and fruity liqueur that is made by infusing cherries in alcohol, typically brandy or a neutral spirit, along with sugar and sometimes other flavorings. Cherry liqueur is a versatile ingredient that can be used in cocktails, desserts, or enjoyed on its own.
Another drink made from cherries is kirsch or kirschwasser. This is quite different from cherry liqueur as it is an unsweetened eau de vie, which is a type of fruit brandy. Kirsch is made by distilling fermented cherries, resulting in a clear and potent spirit. It has a strong cherry flavor and aroma, but without the sweetness of cherry liqueur. Kirsch is often used in cooking and baking, particularly in Swiss and German cuisine, where it is a key ingredient in fondue and Black Forest cake.
Now, here's where things can get a bit confusing. Sometimes kirsch is also referred to as cherry brandy, even though it is not sweet like cherry liqueur. This is because the term “brandy” can be used more broadly to describe any distilled spirit made from fruit. So while kirsch is technically a type of cherry brandy, it is important to note the distinction between sweet cherry liqueur and unsweetened kirsch.
To summarize, the main drinks made from cherries are cherry liqueur, which is sweet and often called cherry brandy, and kirsch or kirschwasser, which is an unsweetened eau de vie distilled from cherries. While both are made from cherries and can be referred to as cherry brandy, they have different flavors and uses. Cherry liqueur is sweet and versatile, while kirsch is clear, strong, and commonly used in cooking and baking.