Cherry liqueur - Heering and Clear Creek

Heering Cherry Liqueur is one of the oldest cherry spirits, being first sold in Denmark in 1818 (proudly marked on the label). It's been around so long because it's really the king of cherry liqueurs. It has a thick, velvety texture and tastes of rich dark cherries with a wonderful note of almonds in the finish. There are also a secret blend of spices which help provide a really sophisticated flavor. While sweet, it also has a tartness to it that makes it ideal for sipping or for cocktails.

There are a few classic cocktails, such as the Singapore Sling, which rely on this liqueur. The Blood and Sand cocktail (created in the 1920s possibly) is an excellent cocktail which should appeal to both cocktail aficionados and novices. This recipe is from Dale DeGroff, a legendary mixologist, who unequivocally states that if Heering Cherry Liqueur isn't available, "don't make a Blood and Sand."

3/4 oz blended scotch

3/4 oz Heering Cherry Liqueur

3/4 oz Italian sweet vermouth

3/4 oz fresh-squeezed orange juice

Shake in a shaker with ice and enjoy. Can be garnished with an orange peel.

Which brings us to Clear Creek's Cherry Liqueur. Don't drink the Clear Creek's version immediately after the Heering's - you'll only be disappointed. The Clear Creek's version isn't bad, but it simply can't compare to Heering. The Clear Creek has a taste of slightly cooked pie cherries. It's fairly tart and has only a slight finish.

Both liqueurs can be found at the usual Seattle liquor stores. The Heering used to be a standard at many Washington liquor stores, but it appears that it's being closed out, so you may only find it at liquor stores outside of Seattle for a limited time.