Eau de vie

Eau-de-vie is a clear distilled spirit traditionally made by fermenting and distilling fruit, though the term can describe a range of fruit spirits. It is used as a beverage and, in small amounts, as a flavouring ingredient in cooking and confectionery. The name alone does not identify the fruit or production style.

It is typically colourless and fluid, with an aroma and flavour that vary according to the fruit and distillation. Bottled examples are commonly sold as spirits; some may be aged or otherwise treated, changing their colour and flavour. It is a broad category rather than one uniform ingredient, so the fruit source and processing are important distinctions.