The Old Fashioned, a timeless cocktail celebrated for its simplicity and depth of flavor, is a testament to the art of balancing spirits, sweetness, bitters, and a touch of citrus. But beyond the whiskey, sugar, and bitters lies a crucial ingredient, often overlooked yet undeniably impactful: the cherry. Choosing the right cherry can elevate your Old Fashioned from good to exceptional, adding a burst of sweetness, a hint of tartness, and a visual appeal that completes the experience.
Maraschino Mayhem: Understanding the Options
Navigating the world of cocktail cherries can be confusing. What’s the difference between a bright red, artificially flavored maraschino and a deep, rich, naturally preserved fruit? The answer lies in the processing and ingredients used. Understanding these differences is key to selecting the perfect cherry for your Old Fashioned.
The Traditional Maraschino: A Sugary Sweet Treat
The traditional maraschino cherry, often found in grocery store jars, is the product of a multi-step process. Raw cherries, typically Royal Ann variety, are brined in calcium chloride and sulfur dioxide, bleaching them of their natural color and flavor. They are then soaked in high fructose corn syrup, artificial coloring (usually Red Dye #40), and preservatives. This results in a cherry that is intensely sweet, almost candied, with a bright red hue that is far from natural. While these cherries hold a nostalgic appeal for some, their artificial flavor and overwhelming sweetness can overpower the nuanced flavors of an Old Fashioned. Many consider them unsuitable for a truly crafted cocktail.
Glace Cherries: Similar Sweetness, Different Texture
Glace cherries, also known as candied cherries, undergo a similar process to traditional maraschinos, but they are typically preserved in a sugar syrup rather than high fructose corn syrup. They also retain a firmer, more crystallized texture compared to the softer, almost soggy texture of traditional maraschinos. While they share the intense sweetness of traditional maraschinos, their texture can make them a less desirable addition to an Old Fashioned, as they don’t macerate as well and can be difficult to eat.
The Luxardo Revolution: A Return to Natural Flavors
Luxardo Maraschino Cherries, produced in Italy, represent a significant departure from the traditional, artificially flavored maraschino. These cherries are made with sour Marasca cherries, grown in the Luxardo family orchards. They are preserved in Marasca cherry syrup, a natural and flavorful sweetener that avoids the use of artificial ingredients. The result is a cherry that is less intensely sweet, with a complex flavor profile that balances sweetness with a subtle tartness and a hint of bitterness. Their deep red color is entirely natural, derived from the cherries themselves. Luxardo cherries are widely considered the gold standard for Old Fashioned cherries, adding a sophisticated touch to the cocktail.
Other Premium Brands: Exploring the Alternatives
Beyond Luxardo, several other brands offer high-quality cocktail cherries that are suitable for an Old Fashioned. These brands often use different varieties of cherries and employ unique preservation methods, resulting in a range of flavor profiles and textures. Look for cherries that are naturally preserved, with minimal artificial ingredients, and a balanced flavor that complements the whiskey in your Old Fashioned. Some popular alternatives include:
- Fabbri Amarena Cherries: These Italian cherries are preserved in a rich syrup with a distinctive almond flavor.
- Tillen Farms Bada Bing Cherries: These cherries are known for their large size and firm texture.
- Filthy Food Black Cherries: These cherries offer a deep, rich flavor and a slightly boozy kick.
The Flavor Profile: Matching the Cherry to Your Whiskey
The type of cherry you choose should complement the whiskey you are using in your Old Fashioned. A bolder, spicier rye whiskey can stand up to a richer, more complex cherry, while a smoother, sweeter bourbon may benefit from a cherry with a brighter, more tart flavor.
Bourbon and Cherry: A Classic Pairing
Bourbon, with its notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, pairs well with cherries that offer a balance of sweetness and tartness. Luxardo cherries are a classic choice for bourbon Old Fashioneds, as their complex flavor profile complements the bourbon’s inherent sweetness without overpowering it. Fabbri Amarena cherries, with their almond notes, can also add a unique dimension to a bourbon Old Fashioned.
Rye and Cherry: Embracing Bold Flavors
Rye whiskey, with its spicier and more assertive flavor profile, can handle a cherry with a bolder flavor. Filthy Food Black Cherries, with their deep, rich flavor and slightly boozy kick, are a good option for rye Old Fashioneds. The tartness of these cherries can also help to balance the spiciness of the rye.
Experimentation is Key: Finding Your Perfect Match
Ultimately, the best cherry for your Old Fashioned is a matter of personal preference. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands and varieties of cherries to find the perfect match for your whiskey and your palate. Consider factors such as sweetness, tartness, texture, and overall flavor complexity when making your selection.
Serving Suggestions: Enhancing the Experience
The way you serve your cherry can also impact the overall experience of your Old Fashioned. While some prefer to simply drop the cherry into the glass, others take a more deliberate approach to presentation.
Garnishing with Style: Presentation Matters
A well-placed cherry can add a touch of elegance to your Old Fashioned. Consider skewering the cherry with a cocktail pick and placing it on the rim of the glass. Alternatively, you can express the oils from an orange peel over the drink and then drape the peel and cherry over the rim for a visually appealing garnish.
Muddling vs. Dropping: Extracting the Flavor
Some bartenders like to muddle a cherry along with the sugar and bitters at the bottom of the glass before adding the whiskey and ice. This helps to release more of the cherry’s flavor into the cocktail. However, muddling can also result in a slightly murky appearance. Others prefer to simply drop the cherry into the glass, allowing it to slowly release its flavor as the cocktail sits.
Storage Tips: Preserving Freshness
Once you’ve selected your perfect cherries, proper storage is essential to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Refrigeration is Key: Keeping Cherries Fresh
Most cocktail cherries, especially those that are naturally preserved, should be refrigerated after opening. This will help to prevent spoilage and maintain their texture and flavor. Store the cherries in their original syrup, ensuring that they are fully submerged.
Shelf Life: Knowing When to Discard
Even when properly stored, cocktail cherries will eventually expire. Check the expiration date on the jar and discard any cherries that show signs of spoilage, such as mold or an off odor. Generally, opened jars of cocktail cherries will last for several months in the refrigerator.
Choosing the right cherry for your Old Fashioned is an important step in crafting a truly exceptional cocktail. By understanding the different types of cherries available and considering their flavor profiles, you can elevate your Old Fashioned to new heights. So, experiment, explore, and discover your perfect cherry pairing. The cherry on top is more than just a garnish; it’s an integral part of the Old Fashioned experience.
What makes one cherry better than another for an Old Fashioned?
The ideal cherry for an Old Fashioned enhances, rather than overpowers, the drink’s complex flavors. Factors like sweetness level, tartness, and texture play a crucial role. A quality cherry should offer a balanced sweetness that complements the bourbon or rye, a subtle tartness that cuts through the richness, and a firm, pleasing texture that holds up in the cocktail.
Conversely, overly sweet, artificially flavored, or mushy cherries detract from the experience. Bright red, neon-hued cherries are often laden with artificial ingredients and provide an undesirable sweetness that masks the spirit’s character. Choosing a cherry with a more natural flavor profile and firmer texture will significantly elevate the Old Fashioned.
Why are Luxardo cherries often recommended for Old Fashioneds?
Luxardo cherries, a type of marasca cherry preserved in Luxardo marasca cherry syrup, are frequently recommended due to their exceptional balance of sweet and tart notes. The cherries are made using a centuries-old family recipe, using real cherry juice instead of artificial flavoring, contributing to their superior taste and quality. Their rich, complex flavor profile pairs exceptionally well with the boldness of bourbon or rye.
Furthermore, Luxardo cherries possess a pleasingly firm texture that provides a satisfying chew. Their dark color and rich aroma contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of the Old Fashioned, creating a more sophisticated drinking experience. While they are more expensive than other options, their superior quality often justifies the cost for discerning cocktail enthusiasts.
Are there other good alternatives to Luxardo cherries?
Yes, several alternatives can provide a similar quality experience to Luxardo cherries. Amarena cherries, another Italian variety, are a good option with a slightly more intense, almost almond-like flavor. Look for versions packed in syrup made from the cherry juice itself, avoiding those with artificial coloring or flavors.
Additionally, Traverse City Whiskey Co. cherries or Filthy Food Black Cherries are excellent American-made options. These cherries are typically made with real cherry juice, providing a more natural flavor and avoiding artificial aftertastes. Experimenting with different brands and varieties will allow you to find a cherry that best suits your personal preferences and budget.
What are the downsides of using maraschino cherries from the grocery store?
The brightly colored, mass-produced maraschino cherries found in most grocery stores are generally not recommended for Old Fashioneds due to their overwhelmingly sweet and artificial flavor. These cherries are often bleached and then dyed red, resulting in a flavor profile that is far removed from that of a natural cherry. The high sugar content can also throw off the balance of the cocktail, making it overly sweet.
Furthermore, these cherries tend to have a soft, mushy texture that lacks the pleasant chewiness of higher-quality options. The artificial ingredients and lack of true cherry flavor detract from the overall complexity and sophistication of the Old Fashioned, making it a less enjoyable experience. They are best reserved for other purposes, such as garnishing ice cream sundaes.
How does the cherry’s syrup impact the Old Fashioned?
The syrup in which the cherries are preserved significantly affects the final flavor profile of the Old Fashioned. High-quality syrups, made from real cherry juice, contribute a subtle sweetness and enhance the cherry’s natural flavor. Adding a small amount of this syrup to the cocktail can complement the other ingredients, creating a more cohesive and balanced drink.
Conversely, syrups made with artificial flavors and high fructose corn syrup can overpower the cocktail with excessive sweetness and an undesirable artificial taste. When choosing a cherry, consider the quality of the syrup and its potential impact on the overall flavor balance of your Old Fashioned. Some bartenders even prefer to use the cherry syrup instead of simple syrup for added cherry flavor.
Can I make my own cocktail cherries?
Absolutely! Making your own cocktail cherries allows for complete control over the ingredients and flavor profile. You can use fresh, high-quality cherries and tailor the syrup to your specific preferences. This is a great way to experiment with different spices, herbs, and spirits to create a truly unique garnish.
Numerous recipes are available online, often involving poaching cherries in a mixture of sugar, water, and your choice of spirits like bourbon or brandy. The process requires some time and effort, but the resulting homemade cherries are far superior to store-bought varieties in terms of flavor and quality. Making your own cherries elevates the Old Fashioned to a new level of craftsmanship.
How many cherries should I use in my Old Fashioned?
The number of cherries used in an Old Fashioned is ultimately a matter of personal preference, but generally, one or two high-quality cherries are sufficient. The goal is to enhance the drink, not to overwhelm it with cherry flavor. Start with one cherry and adjust to your liking.
Keep in mind that the syrup from the cherries also contributes to the overall sweetness and flavor of the cocktail. If you’re using larger cherries or prefer a sweeter Old Fashioned, you might consider using just one. Conversely, if you enjoy a more prominent cherry flavor, two smaller cherries could be a good option. Experimentation is key to finding your perfect balance.