Maraschino Liqueur is the generic name of a type of cherry liqueur, made by several producers.
It is not like other cherry liqueurs at all, and nothing like the syrup used to pack maraschino cherries in jars. It is clear, and dry tasting — it is not sweet.
It is made from Marasca cherries. Both the cherries and the crushed pits are used. Some makers add some honey. The pits give the liqueur a slight bitter almond flavour.
The mixture is allowed to ferment, then distilled like brandy, and a sugar syrup is added.
Then it is aged, then filtered and bottled.
There are also versions made using artificial flavourings.
Around 30% alcohol,
Brands include Luxardo (made in Torreglia, Italy), Stock (Italy), and Maraska (Zadar, Croatia.)
Substitutes
Kirschwasser. Not other cherry liqueurs, or syrup from jars of maraschino cherries.