Clear Creek Kirschwasser (75cl, 40%)

Clear Creek Kirschwasser is an unaged cherry eau de vie from Hood River, Oregon, made in the German style. Bing cherries, mainly from Wasco County, are crushed whole with their pits, then fermented and double-distilled. It is bottled without oak ageing, so it stays clear. The cherry pits give the almond and marzipan character typical of kirschwasser. The nose opens slowly, with warm cherry, soft vanilla, almond and a little mint. The palate is silky, with sugared cherry, marzipan and earthy, nutty tones. The finish is medium, clean and dry, with cherry stone and faint vanilla.