Interested in touring the schnapps areas of Germany? Schnapps tastings have always been included in our tours, but recently we see more and more interest specifically in schnapps. So we can orient a tour focused on the many schnapps distilleries (called Brennerei).
To new-comers, schnapps may require an orientation, because few people know that there are two different types of Schnapps. Germans know nothing about American schnapps and typically, Americans know nothing about German schnapps. Both are often surprised that the other exists – and disturbed that these two very different beverages go by the same name. So if you are from North America and visiting us in The Black Forest, you should set aside your notions – that schnapps is sweet for example.
German Schnapps is pure distillate of fruit, similar to a brandy, whereas American Schnapps’ includes added sugar and are often labeled liqueur. American’s use Peppermint Schnapps in (usually cold) mixed drinks, whereas Germans drink schnapps of every fruit flavor, straight and at room temperature.
Schnapps in Germany is made mostly from the abundant (and sometimes over) supply of fruit that grows in the Black Forest region of Germany. And the center of the fruit region is a distribution center in the town of Oberkirch. If you haven’t visited yet, be prepared to see fruit growing everywhere – and we mean everywhere. Take a walk in the forest, you may come across wild strawberries, black berries and raspberries, and schnapps fountains. Germans certainly know how to enjoy a hike. Care to come along?
