The unmatched flavor of Montana’s famous Flathead Lake sweet cherries got its start
more than 120 years ago. Many of the early cherry tree varieties planted here, such as
the Lambert, were devastated in the “big Freeze” of 1989. Since then, Flathead Lake
orchards have begun experimenting with newer cherry varieties that are more resistant
to Montana’s unpredictable weather. Hence, Lambert cherries have become known as
a “heritage” variety. As part of Wildrye Distilling’s Montana Heritage Spirit Collection, we
have created a Special Reserve spirit we call EichenKirsch (German for: Oaken
Cherry). We ferment Lambert cherries, fresh from Flathead Lake, with Montana beet
sugar. This ferment is then distilled on our custom-built pot stills and rested for at least
4 years in oak. The resulting spirit presents the aroma of cherry followed by the
complexity of palate found in finely matured whiskies and brandies. Each annual
release is limited and unique.
Aged at least 4 years
Released annually in November
Bottled at 60% alc/vol (120 proof)