Hardkorn Sauerkirsch Likör by Sophia Thomalla

A sour cherry liqueur from the Hardkorn brand, made in Germany on a grain brandy base with intense sour cherry flavour. At 15% it sits at the lighter, more sessionable end of the fruit liqueur range, built for easy mixing rather than slow sipping. The grain base keeps the spirit clean and lets the cherry read clearly, which is what a buyer wants from a fruit liqueur destined for fast service.

The nose is expressive and fruity with dominant sour cherry, rounded by a hint of almond and a fine freshness. The palate is clearly cherry fruity with balanced sweetness and refreshing acidity, finishing clean, fruity and pleasantly dry with a lingering cherry note and a subtle tart edge. In a drink it adds sour cherry fruit, colour and a welcome acidity that cuts sweetness, so it suits a quick shot, a cherry and soda, a tonic build or a topper for dry sparkling wine. It also partners desserts well. Serve pure on ice or well chilled.