What Kind of Cherries for Old-Fashioned Cocktails? A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

The old-fashioned is a classic cocktail that has been around since the 1800s. It’s made with whiskey or brandy, sugar, bitters, and a garnish of lemon or orange peel. One of the most popular garnishes for an old-fashioned is a cherry. But not just any cherry will do — you need to select the right kind of cherry for your old-fashioned if you want to make the perfect drink.

A Guide to Choosing the Best Cherries for Old-Fashioned Cocktails

The history of cherries in old-fashioneds dates back to the early 1900s. Back then, bartenders used fresh fruit as a garnish for their drinks. While fresh cherries were an option, they weren’t always available. So bartenders had to get creative and began using canned cherries instead. Today, there are several types of cherries available for use in your old-fashioned.

Types of Cherries Available

There are three main types of cherries available for old-fashioned cocktails: maraschino cherries, Luxardo cherries, and Amarena cherries. Here’s a look at each type:

Maraschino Cherries

Maraschino cherries are the most common type of cherry used in old-fashioned cocktails. They are typically made from red tart cherries that have been soaked in a brine solution of water, sugar, and food coloring before being preserved in a jar of maraschino liqueur. Maraschino cherries have a sweet and syrupy flavor and are usually dyed bright red.

Luxardo Cherries

Luxardo cherries are a premium type of cherry that is made in Italy. They are made from a variety of sour black cherries that are soaked in a syrup made of cane sugar and Marasca cherry juice. Luxardo cherries have a rich, complex flavor and are darker in color than maraschino cherries.

Amarena Cherries

Amarena cherries are a type of Italian cherry that is made from a variety of dark cherries. They are soaked in a syrup made of sugar and wild cherry juice before being preserved in a jar. Amarena cherries have a deep, sweet flavor and are usually darker in color than maraschino cherries.

A Comparison of Different Types of Cherries for Old-Fashioned Cocktails

Now that you know the different types of cherries available for old-fashioned cocktails, let’s take a closer look at each one to see which is the best choice for your drink.

Maraschino Cherries

Maraschino cherries are the most affordable option and are widely available. They have a sweet and syrupy flavor and are usually dyed bright red. However, they can be overly sweet and lack complexity.

Luxardo Cherries

Luxardo cherries are the most expensive option but they have a rich, complex flavor that is worth the extra cost. They are also darker in color than maraschino cherries.

Amarena Cherries

Amarena cherries are a good middle ground between maraschino and Luxardo cherries. They have a deep, sweet flavor and are usually darker in color than maraschino cherries, but are more affordable than Luxardo cherries.

How to Make a Perfect Old-Fashioned with the Right Kind of Cherries

Once you’ve selected the right kind of cherry for your old-fashioned, it’s time to make the perfect drink. Here’s how:

Preparing the Cherries

If you’re using maraschino or Luxardo cherries, you’ll need to remove them from the jar and strain off the syrup. If you’re using Amarena cherries, you can leave them in the jar. Once the cherries are ready, you can move on to the next step.

Adding the Cherries to Your Old-Fashioned

Once the cherries are prepared, add one or two to your old-fashioned. You can muddle the cherries into the drink or leave them whole. Either way, the cherry will add a subtle sweetness and a pop of color to the drink.

Tips for Selecting the Best Cherries for an Old-Fashioned Cocktail

When selecting cherries for your old-fashioned, there are a few things to consider to ensure you get the best possible flavor. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Consider the Flavor Profile

When selecting cherries for your old-fashioned, consider the flavor profile you’re looking for. Do you want something sweet and syrupy, or something more complex and sophisticated? Depending on your preference, you can choose from maraschino, Luxardo, or Amarena cherries.

Consider the Color

The color of the cherries you choose can also impact the flavor of your old-fashioned. Maraschino cherries are usually dyed bright red, while Luxardo and Amarena cherries are usually darker in color. Consider the color of the cherries when selecting the right type for your drink.

Consider the Texture

Finally, consider the texture of the cherries you choose. Maraschino cherries are soft and syrupy, while Luxardo and Amarena cherries are firmer and less sweet. Depending on your preference, you can choose from any of these types of cherries.

Conclusion

Selecting the right kind of cherries for your old-fashioned is essential if you want to make the perfect drink. There are three main types of cherries available: maraschino cherries, Luxardo cherries, and Amarena cherries. Each type has its own unique flavor profile, color, and texture. When selecting cherries for your old-fashioned, consider the flavor profile, color, and texture to ensure you get the best possible flavor. With the right kind of cherries, you can make a perfectly balanced and delicious old-fashioned.