Kirsch is a cherry brandy made using double distillation with black cherries, traditionally aged in ash wood barrels, and is used in mixed drinks and recipes pairing sweet with sour, such as chocolate and Swiss fondue.
Short for kirschwasser, which is literally translated as cherry water, kirsch is a cherry brandy that is made using a double distillation method. The black cherry is the fruit of choice for the fermentation and distillation process, producing a brandy that has a robust flavor without a hint of sweetness. This feature helps distinguish kirsch from cherry liqueur, which is usually very sweet.
Traditionally, kirsch is aged in ash wood barrels. The combination of the distillation process and the type of container used in aging the fermented juice helps deliver a nearly colorless finished product. While cherries and sour cherries are used today, the original formula involved morello cherry, known for its tart, tart flavor. Since the morello cherry was originally grown in the areas surrounding the Black Forest in the southern part of Germany, kirsch is believed to have originated there.
Kirsch is sometimes served alone, as an aperitif. The cherry brand is often used as an element in several mixed drinks, such as the Black Forest, Lady Finger, and Florida Cocktail. Like the sweetest cherry liqueur, kirsch can also be used to add a flavor boost to coffee.
Other applications of Kirsch include recipes that involve mixing sweet with sour. Often, kirsch will be paired with chocolate, not only to enhance the taste of the dessert but also to tone down the sugary flavour. Many chocolate makers employ a liquid center for chocolate creations made with Kirsch. Many types of Swiss fondue also use kirsch to add some flavor to any sauce prepared in a fondue pot. The German favorite, the Black Forest gateau, also includes kirsch among the essential ingredients.
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