Schladerer Kirsch Cherry Liqueur (75cl, 24%)

This is a cherry liqueur from Schladerer of Staufen in the Black Forest, a house that has been distilling since 1844. It is made from Black Forest sweet cherries and natural cherry juice, built on the house's own Kirschwasser. It is sweeter and softer than the unsweetened Kirschwasser, at 24% abv in a 75cl bottle. The cherry brandy base brings a bitter-almond note and enough backbone to keep the sweetness in check. The nose is rich cherry with a faint almond blossom. The palate is balanced and fruit-driven, with sweet cherry, bitter almond and gentle warmth, and the finish is smooth and lightly sweet.