Cherry Tree

Cherry Liqueur: The Aromatic Drink of Autumn

If you are looking for a refined beverage to delight your senses on chilly autumn or winter days, look no further! Cherry liqueur is a delicious drink, perfect for savoring on cozy evenings with loved ones. This preparation will not only remind you of the taste of fresh fruits but will also transform your evenings into a true tasting experience. Here’s how to prepare this aromatic drink step by step for a perfect result.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Maceration time: 2-3 weeks
Total time: 3 weeks
Number of servings: 10-15 servings

Ingredients:
- 2 kg of sour cherries (about 4-5 cups)
- 1 kg of sugar
- 1 l of alcohol (preferably 40-50% alcohol)
- 1 l of vodka
- 1 l of water

Step 1: Preparing the cherries
Start by removing the stems from the cherries and wash them well under cold water. It is essential to use quality cherries, as the final aroma of the liqueur greatly depends on the taste of the fruit. Choose ripe cherries, but not too soft, for an optimal result.

Step 2: Preparing the carboy
In a glass carboy, place 1.5 kg of whole cherries. Then, take the remaining cherries, pit them, and add them to the carboy. This step will add an intense flavor to your liqueur.

Step 3: Infusing with pits
The pits of cherries have a slightly bitter taste and contain compounds that can enrich the aroma. Crush the pits with a weight or mortar, then boil them in 1 l of water for 10-15 minutes. After they have cooled, add this water to the carboy for additional infusion.

Step 4: Maceration
Add 1 kg of sugar to the carboy, stirring gently to ensure the sugar dissolves. Cover the carboy with a lid or cheesecloth and let it macerate in a dark, cool, and well-ventilated place for 10 days. It is important to stir the contents gently every 2-3 days to help dissolve the sugar and infuse the flavors.

Step 5: Finalizing the liqueur
After 10 days, add 1 l of alcohol and 1 l of vodka to the carboy, filling it to the brim. Seal the carboy and let it sit in a cool place for another 10-14 days. This process will intensify the flavors and perfectly blend the sweet taste of cherries with the alcohol.

Step 6: Strain and enjoy
After the maceration period, strain the liqueur through a fine sieve to remove the cherries and pits. You can keep the cherries to make jam or add them to various dishes.

Serving suggestion:
Cherry liqueur can be enjoyed neat, chilled, or used as a base ingredient in cocktails. For an elegant version, serve it in a cocktail glass with ice and garnish with a fresh cherry or a slice of lemon.

Variations:
- Replace some of the cherries with other berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, for a unique flavor.
- Add a few sprigs of mint for a fresh note.

Cherry liqueur is not just a strong alcoholic drink, but also an unforgettable experience that combines tradition with refinement. Prepare it and share it with friends to transform winter evenings into unforgettable moments!