Cherries, those tiny jewels of the fruit world, have been gracing cocktails and mocktails for generations. But not all cherries are created equal, especially when it comes to adding a touch of elegance and flavor to your favorite beverages. Understanding the different types of cherries and how they interact with various drinks is key to mastering the art of the perfect cocktail. This guide delves into the world of cocktail cherries, exploring the varieties, preparation methods, and ideal pairings to elevate your drink-making game.
Maraschino Cherries: The Classic Choice
When most people think of cocktail cherries, the bright red, almost glowing, Maraschino cherry is the first image that comes to mind. These cherries, however, are not exactly as nature intended. The process of creating a Maraschino cherry involves a bit of transformation.
The Maraschino Process
Originally, Maraschino cherries were made from Marasca cherries, a small, slightly sour dark cherry grown in Croatia and Italy. These cherries were preserved in Marasca cherry liqueur, known as Maraschino liqueur. This process gave them a unique, slightly bitter-almond flavor.
However, the modern-day Maraschino cherry that most people are familiar with has undergone a significant transformation. Instead of Marasca cherries and Maraschino liqueur, these cherries are typically made from Rainier or Gold cherries, which are bleached to remove their natural color and then soaked in a high-fructose corn syrup solution with food coloring (typically Red Dye #40) and preservatives. This results in a sweet, artificially flavored cherry with a vibrant red hue. The bright red color and intense sweetness make them easily recognizable and a staple in many bars.
Uses in Drinks
Maraschino cherries are incredibly versatile and can be found in a wide array of cocktails. They are a classic garnish for drinks like the Manhattan, Old Fashioned, and Shirley Temple. They can also be used to add a touch of sweetness and color to more complex cocktails.
Beyond garnishing, the syrup from Maraschino cherries can also be used to sweeten drinks. A splash of Maraschino syrup can add a unique flavor profile to your cocktails, although it’s important to remember that the syrup is very sweet, so use it sparingly.
Drawbacks of Maraschino Cherries
While Maraschino cherries are a classic choice, they are not without their drawbacks. The artificial flavor and excessive sweetness can sometimes overpower the other flavors in a cocktail. The artificial coloring is also a concern for some people. If you are looking for a more natural and complex flavor, you might want to consider other types of cocktail cherries.
Glace Cherries: A Baking Staple with Limited Drink Appeal
Glace cherries, also known as candied cherries, are another type of cherry that you might encounter. These cherries are preserved in sugar syrup, resulting in a very sweet and sticky fruit. While they are commonly used in baking, their use in cocktails is less frequent.
The Glace Process
The process of making glace cherries involves repeatedly soaking cherries in increasingly concentrated sugar syrup. This process draws out the moisture from the cherries and replaces it with sugar, resulting in a preserved fruit with a long shelf life.
Limited Use in Drinks
Glace cherries are generally considered too sweet and sticky for use in most cocktails. Their texture can also be a bit off-putting in drinks. However, they can be used in certain dessert cocktails or as a garnish for very sweet drinks.
Alternatives to Glace Cherries
If you are looking for a candied cherry for your cocktails, consider using Luxardo Maraschino cherries or other high-quality cocktail cherries instead. These cherries offer a more complex flavor profile and a better texture.
Luxardo Cherries: The Premium Choice
Luxardo cherries represent a significant step up from the standard Maraschino cherry. These cherries are produced by Luxardo, an Italian company with a long history of producing liqueurs and cocktail ingredients.
The Luxardo Difference
Luxardo cherries are made from Marasca cherries grown in Luxardo’s own orchards. These cherries are candied with Marasca cherry syrup, which gives them a unique and complex flavor. They are also darker in color and have a firmer texture than standard Maraschino cherries. The Luxardo process uses no artificial coloring or preservatives.
Flavor Profile
Luxardo cherries have a rich, complex flavor that is both sweet and slightly tart. They also have a distinct almond note, which comes from the Marasca cherry pits. This complex flavor profile makes them a perfect addition to a wide range of cocktails.
Ideal Pairings
Luxardo cherries are a fantastic addition to classic cocktails like the Manhattan, Old Fashioned, and Rob Roy. Their rich flavor complements the flavors of whiskey, bourbon, and rye. They can also be used in more complex cocktails to add a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Cost Considerations
Luxardo cherries are more expensive than standard Maraschino cherries. However, many people believe that the superior flavor and quality are worth the extra cost. A jar of Luxardo cherries is a worthwhile investment for any serious cocktail enthusiast.
Other High-Quality Cocktail Cherries
While Luxardo cherries are a popular choice, there are other brands and varieties of high-quality cocktail cherries available. These cherries offer a range of flavors and textures to suit different preferences and cocktails.
Amarena Cherries
Amarena cherries, like Luxardo cherries, are an Italian variety. They are typically smaller and more tart than Marasca cherries. They are preserved in a rich, dark syrup that gives them a deep, intense flavor.
Fabbri Amarena Cherries
Fabbri is another well-known Italian brand that produces high-quality Amarena cherries. Their cherries are known for their intense flavor and beautiful presentation in a distinctive blue and white jar.
Oregon Cherries
Oregon is a major cherry-growing region in the United States. Some producers in Oregon are creating excellent cocktail cherries using local cherry varieties. These cherries often have a brighter, fruitier flavor than European varieties.
Finding Your Perfect Cherry
Experimenting with different brands and varieties of cocktail cherries is the best way to find your perfect cherry. Consider the flavor profile of the cocktails you enjoy making and choose cherries that complement those flavors.
Making Your Own Cocktail Cherries
For the truly adventurous cocktail enthusiast, making your own cocktail cherries is a rewarding experience. This allows you to control the ingredients and create a unique flavor profile that perfectly suits your tastes.
Choosing Your Cherries
The first step in making your own cocktail cherries is to choose your cherries. Fresh, ripe cherries are essential for the best results. Rainier cherries, Bing cherries, and sour cherries are all good options.
The Brining Process
Some recipes call for brining the cherries before preserving them. This helps to firm up the cherries and prevent them from becoming mushy during the preserving process.
Creating the Syrup
The syrup is the heart of your cocktail cherries. You can use a simple syrup made from sugar and water, or you can add other flavorings like spices, herbs, and liqueurs. Experiment with different combinations to create your own unique flavor profile.
Preserving the Cherries
Once the syrup is ready, you can add the cherries and simmer them until they are tender and have absorbed the syrup. Then, transfer the cherries and syrup to sterilized jars and seal them.
Storage and Shelf Life
Homemade cocktail cherries should be stored in a cool, dark place. They will keep for several months. Once opened, they should be refrigerated.
Pairing Cherries with Different Drinks
The key to using cherries effectively in drinks lies in understanding how their flavor profile interacts with the other ingredients in the cocktail.
Whiskey-Based Cocktails
Luxardo cherries are a classic pairing for whiskey-based cocktails like the Manhattan, Old Fashioned, and Sazerac. Their rich, complex flavor complements the flavors of whiskey, bourbon, and rye.
Gin-Based Cocktails
While cherries are less commonly used in gin-based cocktails, they can add a touch of sweetness and color to certain drinks. A bright cherry can balance the botanical flavors of gin in cocktails like the Martinez.
Rum-Based Cocktails
Maraschino cherries are a good choice for rum-based cocktails like the Rum Old Fashioned or a simple rum and Coke. The sweetness of the cherry complements the sweetness of the rum.
Vodka-Based Cocktails
Cherries can be used in vodka-based cocktails to add a touch of sweetness and flavor. A simple vodka and cherry juice is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks
Cherries are a popular addition to non-alcoholic drinks like Shirley Temples and cherry sodas. They add a touch of sweetness and color to these kid-friendly beverages.
Beyond the Garnish: Using Cherry Syrup
The syrup that the cherries are preserved in can also be a valuable ingredient in cocktails. Cherry syrup can be used to add sweetness and flavor to a wide range of drinks.
Adding Depth to Cocktails
A splash of cherry syrup can add depth and complexity to cocktails. It can also be used to balance out the acidity of other ingredients.
Homemade Cherry Soda
Cherry syrup can be used to make homemade cherry soda. Simply mix the syrup with soda water and add a cherry garnish.
Experimenting with Flavors
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors when using cherry syrup. Try adding it to cocktails that you wouldn’t normally think to pair with cherries. You might be surprised at the results.
Serving and Presentation
The way you serve and present your cocktails is just as important as the ingredients you use. A well-garnished cocktail is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Garnish Placement
Pay attention to the placement of your cherry garnish. A single cherry placed on a cocktail pick is a classic choice. You can also use multiple cherries or garnish with a cherry and a citrus twist.
The Perfect Glassware
Choose the right glassware for your cocktail. A classic coupe glass or a rocks glass are both good choices for cocktails that are garnished with cherries.
Elevate the Experience
Adding a cherry to your cocktail is more than just a garnish; it’s an experience. Choose high-quality cherries, use them thoughtfully, and present your cocktails with care to elevate the drinking experience for yourself and your guests. The right cherry can transform a simple drink into something truly special.
What are the main types of cherries used in cocktails?
The two most commonly used types of cherries in cocktails are maraschino cherries and Luxardo cherries. Maraschino cherries are bright red, artificially sweetened, and mass-produced. They offer a burst of sweetness and a visually appealing pop of color, making them a popular choice for a wide range of drinks.
Luxardo cherries, on the other hand, are a premium option. These Italian cherries are preserved in a marasca cherry syrup and offer a complex, tart, and slightly bitter flavor profile. They are preferred by bartenders seeking a more sophisticated and nuanced addition to their cocktails.
Why are maraschino cherries so brightly colored?
The vibrant red color of mass-produced maraschino cherries is primarily due to artificial coloring, specifically Red Dye No. 40. The natural color of the Queen Anne cherries, which are typically used as a base, is bleached out before being dyed. This process ensures a uniform and intense color that is associated with the classic maraschino cherry.
While some smaller producers may use natural coloring methods, the majority of commercially available maraschino cherries rely on artificial dyes to achieve their signature bright red hue. This is a cost-effective way to achieve a consistent and appealing product that stands out in drinks.
What is the difference between Luxardo cherries and other “gourmet” cocktail cherries?
Luxardo cherries are made using specific techniques and ingredients that differentiate them from other gourmet cherries. They are produced with marasca cherries grown in the Luxardo family orchards and preserved in their own marasca cherry syrup. This results in a distinctive flavor that is both tart and sweet, with a hint of bitterness.
While other brands may offer “gourmet” or “cocktail” cherries, they often lack the unique flavor profile and high-quality ingredients that define Luxardo cherries. Many substitute cheaper cherry varieties or use alternative preservation methods, resulting in a less complex and arguably less authentic taste experience.
Can I use fresh cherries in cocktails?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used in cocktails, especially when they are in season and of high quality. They provide a more natural and less processed flavor compared to preserved cherries. Consider muddling fresh cherries directly in the cocktail or using them as a garnish.
However, keep in mind that fresh cherries have a shorter shelf life and may require more preparation. Also, the flavor and sweetness of fresh cherries can vary depending on the variety and ripeness, which may impact the consistency of your cocktails. Always remove the pits before using fresh cherries.
Are there any cherry substitutes I can use in cocktails?
Yes, if you’re looking for a cherry substitute, consider using other types of preserved fruits. Brandied cherries, which are cherries preserved in brandy, offer a similar depth of flavor and boozy kick. Amarena cherries, another Italian variety, are preserved in a rich syrup and have a slightly more intense cherry flavor.
Alternatively, you could experiment with other red berries like raspberries or cranberries. These fruits can provide a similar color and tartness to cocktails. Just be mindful of the sweetness and adjust the other ingredients accordingly to maintain balance.
How should I store cocktail cherries after opening the jar?
Once you open a jar of cocktail cherries, proper storage is essential to maintain their quality and prevent spoilage. Always store them in the refrigerator in their original syrup. Ensure the cherries are submerged in the syrup to prevent them from drying out and to help preserve their flavor.
Properly stored cocktail cherries, especially those in a high-sugar syrup like Luxardo cherries, can last for several months in the refrigerator after opening. Pay attention to any changes in color, odor, or texture, which could indicate spoilage. Use a clean utensil each time you retrieve cherries to avoid introducing bacteria into the jar.
Which cocktails pair best with Luxardo cherries?
Luxardo cherries are a fantastic addition to cocktails that benefit from a touch of complexity and sophistication. They pair exceptionally well with classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Sazerac, where their rich flavor complements the base spirits and other ingredients.
They also elevate more modern creations, especially those featuring whiskey, bourbon, or rye. The tartness of the Luxardo cherry can balance out sweeter cocktails, while its depth of flavor adds a noticeable upgrade from standard maraschino cherries. Consider them for stirred drinks where the nuanced flavors can truly shine.