What is "himbeergeist"

Himbeergeist (lit " raspberry spirit") is a fruit-based liquor ( Schnaps) produced mainly in Germany and the Alsace region of France.

Rather than being distilled from a fermented mash of fresh fruit like other Obstler ( fruit brandy), raspberries' low sugar content results in a low capacity to produce alcohol. This is remedied by adding a quantity of 95.6% pure neutral spirits to the crushed berries. This mixture is then macerated for several weeks to draw out the raspberry essence, then distilled and bottled at 40% ABV or stronger.