There are number of Cherry Liqueurs but none are as famous as Peter Heering. With a flavor that is sweet, fresh and full of cherries, you would think you’ve been transported to Traverse City, Michigan (Cherry Capital of the World). This is different from Kirsch or Maraschino Liqueur which are both cherry flavored. Kirsch is unaged and more related to an Eau de Vie. Maraschino liqueur (if you remember day 2) is slightly aged but doesn’t pick up any color. Heering hangs out for 5 years in the barrels and both mellows and picks up flavor.
Heering has been produced since the early 1800’s and is sold in more than 100 countries. Its base is brandy and cherries and spices are soaked in it to get the flavor. After a quick five years in the barrels and you have your spirit.
Unique Facts:
- The Queen of England’s favorite liqueur is Heering.
- While some say that St. Germain is the most versatile liqueur, others think that Cherry Heering is.
- There is no herring of any kind in Cherry Heering.
Cocktails:
- Blood and Sand is equal parts of OJ, scotch, cherry heering and sweet vermouth
- Remember day 5 talking about the Singapore Flip. Yep! It takes cherry heering too.
- Remember the Maine is like a Manhattan and a Sazerac mixed. It’s rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, Cherry Heering and absinthe.
How I enjoy: Nothing beats a good blood and sand. Scotch is not known for it’s mixing but there are some interesting cocktails out there. A well-balanced Blood and Sand is a delicious blend of smoke and sweet. Budmo!
Sources:
- Imbibe: http://www.imbibemagazine.com/Elements-Cherry-Heering
- Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Heering
- Corporate Website: http://www.cherryheering.com/ (all though not as much as you would think)