Kirschwasser, or Kirsch

An eau de vie made from small black cherries. The French distill it so that the fruit flavor dominates, while the Germans make it stronger and drier. The Swiss can go either way.

Kirschwasser, hailing from the Black Forest, has the reputation of being the best, though any brand is an acquired taste when sipped neat. When mixed as an accent to drinks like the Mai Tai or fodder like salads, kirschwasser piques the interest and never offends.