Cherry Brandy

Cherry brandy has been a cocktail staple since the 1800s, showing up in classics like the Singapore Sling and the Blood and Sand. There’s an important distinction: cherry brandy liqueur (like Cherry Heering) is sweet and syrupy, while actual cherry eau de vie (like Kirschwasser) is dry and clear. Most cocktail recipes calling for “cherry brandy” mean the sweet liqueur version. Cherry Heering, made in Denmark since 1818, is the gold standard. A splash adds a rich, dark fruit character to stirred drinks that grenadine just can’t deliver.

Last modified on October 15, 2026