Swiss Kirschwasser
Swiss Kirschwasser, often from Zuger or Aargau cantons, is a high-proof cherry distillate at 42-45% ABV, prized for its purity and served in fondue traditions. It matches HTS 2208.90.46 as undenatured kirschwasser under 80% vol strength. This subheading distinguishes it from sweetened ratafias.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
More Specific Codes
This product may fall under a more specific subheading:
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If containing >0.5% cacao or coffee
Spirituous beverages with chocolate or coffee elements shift to 2208.90.72.
If ethyl alcohol content ≥80% vol
Undenatured ethyl alcohol over 80% ABV moves to heading 2207 for pure spirits.
If processed as sangria or similar mixed beverages
Mixed spirit drinks like sangria classify under 2208.90.30.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Label with precise ABV and 'product of Switzerland' to comply with FDA/TTB standards
• Declare exact proof gallons on entry summary to match CBP's 100 proof ratio calculations
Related Products under HTS 2208.90.46
Kirschwasser Cherry Brandy
Kirschwasser is a clear, colorless fruit brandy distilled from fermented morello cherries, typically achieving an alcoholic strength between 35-50% ABV, well under 80% vol. It falls under HTS 2208.90.46 as a specific type of kirschwasser, distinct from other fruit brandies due to its production from cherry distillate without added sweeteners. This classification covers undenatured ethyl alcohol spirits like kirschwasser.
Ratafia de Pêche Peach Liqueur
Ratafia de Pêche is a French peach-based spirituous beverage macerated with fruit and lightly sweetened, typically 18-40% ABV. It qualifies under HTS 2208.90.46 as ratafia, distinct from higher-sugar liqueurs due to its bittersweet profile and low sugar content. This covers traditional fruit ratafias under 80% vol.
Apricot Ratafia Spirit
Apricot ratafia spirit is crafted from distilled apricot pomace with added fruit essence, around 30% ABV. It fits HTS 2208.90.46 for ratafia classifications of fruit-based spirituous beverages <80% vol. Distinct from slivovitz by its lighter, sweetened character.
Black Forest Kirschwasser
Authentic Black Forest Kirschwasser from Germany's Schwarzwald region is double-distilled from local cherries, offering a potent cherry stone aroma at around 40% ABV. Classified under HTS 2208.90.46 for its pure kirschwasser characteristics without coloring or flavor additives. This ensures precise tariff treatment for traditional cherry eaux-de-vie.
Alsatian Ratafia Kirsch
Alsatian Ratafia is a mistelle-style cherry ratafia made by halting fermentation early, blending unfermented juice with kirsch at ~18% ABV. HTS 2208.90.46 captures this as ratafia due to its spirit addition and fruit base under 80% vol. It differs from fortified wines by its spirituous nature.
Italian Ratafia Amaro
Italian Ratafia Amaro combines distilled spirits with macerated fruits and herbs, at 25-35% ABV, offering a bittersweet profile. Under HTS 2208.90.46 as ratafia, provided sugar levels keep it distinct from liqueurs. This subheading targets traditional European fruit spirits.