Kirsch - Definition and Overview

Kirschwasser (pronounced with the w as a vee sound, like kirschvasser) is a clear alcoholic spirit made from distilling the fermented juice of a small black cherry. It is colorless because it is not aged in wood.

The drink is quite sweet and is typically used for flavoring mixed drinks such as the Lady Finger, Florida Cocktail, and Black Forest.

The name is German and means "cherry water".

It is also known as simply Kirsch.

This liquor is used in cheese fondue recipes. Its alcoholic content is 45% (90 proof).