Cocktail cherries, those glistening, intensely flavored orbs that adorn classic and contemporary drinks alike, are a far cry from the fresh cherries you might snack on during summer. But what exactly are they, and what kind of cherries are used to create these delectable garnishes? The answer, as you’ll soon discover, is more nuanced than you might think.
The Maraschino Cherry: The Quintessential Cocktail Cherry
When most people think of cocktail cherries, they immediately picture the bright red, almost fluorescent, maraschino cherry. This is understandable, as it’s been the dominant variety for decades, gracing everything from Shirley Temples to Manhattans.
What is a Maraschino Cherry?
It’s crucial to understand that “maraschino” doesn’t refer to a specific type of cherry. It describes a preservation and flavoring 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 maraschino liqueur, a spirit distilled from Marasca cherries themselves.
The Evolution of the Maraschino Cherry
Over time, the process and the cherries used evolved. Prohibition in the United States played a significant role in this shift. The alcoholic maraschino liqueur was no longer a viable option, leading to the development of a non-alcoholic preservation method.
Today, most commercially produced maraschino cherries are made using sweet cherries, often the Royal Ann variety, which is a light-colored, firm cherry. The cherries are brined in a calcium chloride solution to remove their natural color and flavor. They are then steeped in a high-fructose corn syrup solution, often with red food coloring and artificial flavoring (typically almond extract) added. This process results in the sweet, bright red cherry we’ve all come to recognize.
The Pros and Cons of Maraschino Cherries
The main advantage of the modern maraschino cherry is its affordability and long shelf life. Its intense sweetness and vibrant color also appeal to many. However, its artificial flavor and reliance on artificial colors are drawbacks for those seeking a more natural or sophisticated cocktail experience.
Beyond Maraschino: Exploring Other Cocktail Cherry Options
Fortunately, the world of cocktail cherries extends far beyond the traditional maraschino. An increasing number of bartenders and home mixologists are embracing alternative options that offer richer, more complex flavors and a more authentic cherry experience.
Luxardo Maraschino Cherries: A Taste of Tradition
For those seeking a more authentic maraschino experience, Luxardo Maraschino Cherries are an excellent choice. These cherries are made using the original Marasca cherries and preserved in Marasca cherry syrup. They boast a deep, rich flavor with a hint of bitterness and almond, a far cry from the overly sweet, artificial taste of many commercial maraschino cherries.
Other High-Quality Maraschino-Style Cherries
Several other producers offer high-quality maraschino-style cherries using different varieties of sweet cherries and more natural preservation methods. These cherries often feature a darker color, a more pronounced cherry flavor, and less reliance on artificial additives.
Brandied Cherries: Infused with Spirits
Brandied cherries offer another exciting option for cocktail garnishes. These cherries are preserved in brandy, often with sugar and spices. The brandy infuses the cherries with a warm, boozy flavor that complements many classic cocktails. They are often darker in color and possess a more complex flavor profile compared to standard maraschino cherries.
Amarena Cherries: Italian Delights
Amarena cherries, typically hailing from Italy, are another delicious choice. These cherries are small, dark, and slightly sour, preserved in a rich syrup. Their slightly tart flavor balances beautifully with sweeter cocktails.
Fresh Cherries: A Seasonal Treat
During cherry season, fresh cherries can be a wonderful addition to cocktails. While they require more preparation and don’t have the same shelf life as preserved cherries, their fresh, natural flavor is unparalleled. Dark, sweet varieties like Bing or Rainier cherries work particularly well.
Choosing the Right Cherry for Your Cocktail
The best type of cherry for your cocktail depends on your personal preferences and the specific drink you’re making.
Factors to Consider
- Flavor Profile: Do you prefer a sweet, artificial flavor, a rich, complex cherry flavor, or a tart, boozy note?
- Color: Are you looking for a bright red cherry, a deep dark cherry, or something in between?
- Ingredients: Are you concerned about artificial colors and flavors?
- Price: Cocktail cherries range in price from inexpensive commercial maraschino cherries to more expensive, artisanal varieties.
- The Cocktail Itself: Some cocktails, like a Manhattan, traditionally call for a specific type of cherry (often a Luxardo or brandied cherry), while others are more flexible.
Pairing Cherries with Cocktails
- Classic Cocktails (Manhattan, Old Fashioned): Luxardo Maraschino Cherries or brandied cherries are often preferred for their sophisticated flavor.
- Sweet Cocktails (Shirley Temple, Roy Rogers): Standard maraschino cherries can work well in sweeter, simpler drinks.
- Sour Cocktails (Whiskey Sour): Amarena cherries or slightly tart fresh cherries can provide a nice counterpoint to the sourness.
- Spirit-Forward Cocktails: Choose a cherry that complements the base spirit. For example, a bourbon-based cocktail might pair well with brandied cherries, while a gin-based cocktail could benefit from the bright flavor of a high-quality maraschino cherry.
Making Your Own Cocktail Cherries
For the adventurous home mixologist, making your own cocktail cherries is a rewarding endeavor. You can control the ingredients, flavors, and level of sweetness, resulting in a truly unique and delicious garnish.
Simple Recipe Overview
The basic process involves pitting fresh cherries, simmering them in a syrup made with sugar, water, and your choice of flavoring agents (such as vanilla extract, almond extract, spices, or spirits), and then storing them in an airtight container. There are countless variations on this recipe, allowing you to experiment with different flavor combinations.
Ingredients to Customize Your Cherries
Consider adding:
- Different types of spirits (brandy, bourbon, rum)
- Spices (cinnamon, cloves, star anise)
- Extracts (vanilla, almond)
- Citrus zest
Storage and Shelf Life of Cocktail Cherries
Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and flavor of your cocktail cherries.
General Guidelines
- Unopened jars of commercially produced cocktail cherries can typically be stored at room temperature in a cool, dark place.
- Once opened, cocktail cherries should be refrigerated.
- Homemade cocktail cherries should always be refrigerated.
Shelf Life
The shelf life of cocktail cherries varies depending on the type and storage conditions. Commercially produced cherries often have a long shelf life, while homemade cherries should be consumed within a few weeks for optimal flavor. Look for any signs of spoilage, such as mold or an off odor, before consuming.
In conclusion, the world of cocktail cherries is far more diverse than the ubiquitous bright red maraschino suggests. From the authentic flavors of Luxardo cherries to the boozy warmth of brandied cherries and the seasonal delight of fresh cherries, there’s a perfect cherry to enhance every cocktail. By understanding the different types of cocktail cherries and their unique characteristics, you can elevate your cocktail game and create truly memorable drinking experiences.
What is the most common type of cherry used for cocktail cherries?
The most common type of cherry used for cocktail cherries is the Maraschino cherry. While the term “Maraschino” originally referred to cherries preserved in Marasca liqueur, today, it typically refers to cherries that have been brined in a calcium chloride and sulfur dioxide solution, then soaked in high fructose corn syrup and food coloring. This process gives them their characteristic bright red color, sweetness, and extended shelf life.
While the Maraschino is the most widespread, other varieties can also be used. Some producers prefer Queen Anne cherries or even Bing cherries for a richer, more complex flavor profile, especially when crafting artisanal or gourmet cocktail cherries. These variations often involve using natural sweeteners and dyes, resulting in a more nuanced taste and color than commercially produced Maraschino cherries.
How are Maraschino cherries made?
The production of Maraschino cherries begins with fresh cherries that are bleached with calcium chloride and sulfur dioxide. This process removes the natural color and flavor of the cherries, making them appear almost translucent. The cherries are then pitted and stemmed, preparing them for the next stage.
Following the bleaching, the cherries are soaked in a high fructose corn syrup solution that is heavily dyed with food coloring, typically red dye #40. This syrup is what gives the cherries their intense sweetness and characteristic bright red hue. Finally, they are often treated with preservatives to ensure a long shelf life before being packaged and distributed.
Are all cocktail cherries Maraschino cherries?
No, not all cocktail cherries are Maraschino cherries, though the term “Maraschino cherry” is often used as a general descriptor. While commercially produced, bright red, and heavily sweetened cherries dominate the market, there are many artisanal and gourmet alternatives available that offer a different flavor profile and appearance.
These alternative cocktail cherries might utilize different cherry varieties like Bing or Queen Anne, and they often employ natural preservation and sweetening methods. They may also feature more complex flavor infusions, such as spices or liqueurs, resulting in a sophisticated and less intensely sweet cocktail cherry experience.
What’s the difference between Maraschino cherries and Luxardo cherries?
Maraschino cherries, as commonly found in supermarkets, are typically bleached and soaked in high fructose corn syrup with artificial coloring and flavoring. They are known for their intense sweetness, bright red color, and relatively soft texture. They often lack a distinct cherry flavor beyond the overwhelming sweetness.
Luxardo cherries, on the other hand, are a premium variety of Maraschino cherry made using Marasca cherries grown in Italy. They are preserved in Marasca cherry syrup, giving them a rich, complex, and slightly tart cherry flavor. They have a dark, almost black color and a firmer texture compared to standard Maraschino cherries. They also contain a significant amount of alcohol from the preserved syrup and offer a more sophisticated taste.
What is the purpose of using cocktail cherries in drinks?
Cocktail cherries serve several purposes in drinks. Primarily, they add a visual appeal, enhancing the overall presentation of the cocktail and making it more inviting. The bright color of the cherry provides a pop of color that complements the other ingredients in the drink.
Beyond aesthetics, cocktail cherries also contribute to the flavor profile of the drink. They add a touch of sweetness and a subtle cherry flavor that can complement or contrast with the other ingredients. Furthermore, some people enjoy eating the cherry as a small, sweet treat at the end of the drink, providing a satisfying finish.
Are cocktail cherries healthy?
Commercially produced Maraschino cherries are not generally considered healthy due to their high sugar content and the use of artificial colors and preservatives. The bleaching and soaking process strips the cherry of its natural nutrients, leaving behind a sugary treat with minimal nutritional value. Regularly consuming large quantities is not recommended for those seeking a healthy diet.
However, some artisanal cocktail cherries that use natural ingredients and less sugar can be a slightly healthier option. These often retain more of the cherry’s natural antioxidants and vitamins. Still, it’s important to consume them in moderation as they remain a sweetened treat rather than a significant source of nutrients.
Can I make my own cocktail cherries at home?
Yes, you can absolutely make your own cocktail cherries at home, and it’s a rewarding process that allows for customization of flavor and ingredients. Making them yourself allows you to avoid artificial colors and preservatives, and you can experiment with different cherry varieties, sweeteners, and spices.
Homemade cocktail cherries typically involve pitting fresh cherries and simmering them in a syrup made from sugar, water, and your choice of liqueur or flavorings, such as bourbon, brandy, vanilla extract, or almond extract. The simmering process preserves the cherries and infuses them with the flavors of the syrup. Properly stored, homemade cocktail cherries can last for several weeks in the refrigerator.