What Cherries Go in an Old Fashioned? Demystifying the Garnish
An Old Fashioned is traditionally garnished with a maraschino cherry, although the specific type of maraschino cherry can significantly impact the cocktail’s flavor profile, with better quality, naturally colored cherries being preferred over those laden with artificial ingredients.
A Cherry on Top: The Importance of the Old Fashioned Garnish
The Old Fashioned, a cornerstone of classic cocktails, is a minimalist drink highlighting the spirit’s character. While seemingly simple, each ingredient plays a vital role, including the garnish. The cherry isn’t just for looks; it contributes to the drink’s overall flavor profile and visual appeal. Choosing the right cherry can elevate an ordinary Old Fashioned to an extraordinary one.
Maraschino: More Than Meets the Eye
The term “maraschino cherry” is often used generically, but there’s a vast difference between the bright red, artificially flavored cherries commonly found in supermarkets and the more sophisticated, naturally flavored varieties. The former are often preserved with high fructose corn syrup and artificial dyes, contributing an overwhelmingly sweet and artificial taste. The latter, traditionally made with Marasca cherries from Croatia, are preserved in a liqueur made from the same cherries, offering a complex, nuanced sweetness.
The Preferred Choice: Luxardo Maraschino Cherries
For many cocktail enthusiasts and professional bartenders, Luxardo Maraschino Cherries are the gold standard. These are made using Marasca cherries and their syrup, offering a rich, slightly bitter, and intensely flavorful experience. They are not bright red; instead, they possess a deep, dark red hue, indicating their natural ingredients. The texture is firm and chewy, and the flavor is far more complex than the mass-produced alternatives. Using Luxardo cherries (or similar high-quality brands) enhances the Old Fashioned by adding depth and complexity to the drink’s sweetness.
Alternative Options: Exploring Other Cherry Varieties
While Luxardo cherries are widely considered ideal, other high-quality cherry options can also work well. Consider cherries that are naturally colored and preserved, avoiding those with artificial ingredients.
Amarena Cherries: Originating from Italy, Amarena cherries are another good option. They are smaller and have a slightly tart flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the Old Fashioned.
Other Brandied Cherries: Several brands offer high-quality brandied cherries that can add a unique twist. Look for those made with real fruit and natural flavorings.
Avoiding Common Mistakes: Cherry Red Flags
Choosing the wrong cherry can detract from the Old Fashioned experience.
Bright Red, Artificially Flavored Cherries: These are the biggest offenders. Their artificial sweetness and overpowering flavor can overwhelm the drink’s delicate balance.
Cherries with Corn Syrup: High fructose corn syrup adds an artificial sweetness that doesn’t complement the drink well. Look for cherries preserved in their own juices or natural sweeteners.
Overly Processed Cherries: Cherries that are overly processed can lose their natural flavor and texture. Choose cherries that look and taste like real fruit.
Comparing Cherry Types
| Cherry Type | Color | Flavor Profile | Sweetness Level | Recommended for Old Fashioned? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Luxardo Maraschino | Dark Red | Rich, slightly bitter, complex | Moderate | Yes |
| Standard Maraschino | Bright Red | Artificial, overly sweet | High | No |
| Amarena | Dark Red/Black | Tart, slightly bitter, complex | Moderate | Yes |
| Brandied (High Quality) | Varies | Depends on Brand/Fruit used | Varies | Yes (if high quality) |
Serving Suggestions: How to Present Your Cherries
While the choice of cherry is crucial, how you serve it also matters.
Single Cherry: A single, high-quality cherry is typically all you need.
Garnish Pick: Use a cocktail pick to keep the cherry neatly positioned.
Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overload the drink with multiple cherries. Less is more.
Beyond the Cherry: Other Old Fashioned Considerations
While the cherry is important, the other ingredients in an Old Fashioned are equally crucial:
- Whiskey: Choose a high-quality bourbon or rye whiskey. The spirit is the star of the drink.
- Sugar: Use simple syrup or a sugar cube for sweetness.
- Bitters: Angostura bitters are the traditional choice, but other bitters can add interesting variations.
- Orange Peel: Express the oils of an orange peel over the drink and use it as a garnish alongside the cherry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can’t find Luxardo cherries?
If Luxardo cherries are unavailable, look for other high-quality maraschino cherries that are naturally colored and flavored. Check the ingredient list and avoid cherries with artificial colors, flavors, and high fructose corn syrup. Amarena cherries or other brandied cherries are also good alternatives.
Can I use fresh cherries in an Old Fashioned?
While you could use fresh cherries, they won’t provide the same depth of flavor as a good quality maraschino. If using fresh cherries, consider muddling a small piece with the sugar and bitters, but still garnish with a quality maraschino cherry for the classic presentation.
Are all bright red cherries bad for an Old Fashioned?
Generally, yes. The bright red color usually indicates artificial coloring and flavoring, which can overwhelm the drink’s flavor profile. These cherries tend to be overly sweet and lack the complexity of naturally preserved cherries.
Do I need to muddle the cherry in the Old Fashioned?
No. Muddling a high-quality cherry can release too much sweetness and overpower the other flavors. The cherry is primarily a garnish meant to be enjoyed separately or alongside the drink.
What’s the difference between a maraschino cherry and a brandied cherry?
Maraschino cherries are typically preserved in a syrup, while brandied cherries are preserved in brandy or other spirits. Both can be suitable for an Old Fashioned, but brandied cherries offer a stronger alcoholic flavor.
Where can I buy good quality maraschino cherries?
Specialty liquor stores, gourmet food stores, and online retailers are the best places to find high-quality maraschino cherries like Luxardo or Amarena. Check the labels carefully when purchasing.
How should I store maraschino cherries?
Once opened, maraschino cherries should be stored in their syrup in the refrigerator. They can last for several months if stored properly. Ensure the cherries are submerged in the syrup to prevent them from drying out.
Can I make my own maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can make your own maraschino cherries. Numerous recipes are available online, often involving fresh cherries, sugar, brandy, and other flavorings. Making your own allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking.
Does the type of whiskey I use impact the cherry pairing?
Yes, the type of whiskey can influence the cherry pairing. A bolder rye whiskey might pair better with a slightly tart cherry, while a sweeter bourbon might complement a richer, more complex cherry. Experiment to find your preferred combination.
Is it okay to use more than one cherry as a garnish?
While not traditional, it’s ultimately a matter of personal preference. One high-quality cherry is usually sufficient, but if you enjoy the taste of the cherries, adding a second is acceptable, as long as it doesn’t overcrowd the glass or overwhelm the other flavors.
Can I use cherry bitters in addition to a cherry garnish?
Using cherry bitters can add another layer of cherry flavor to the Old Fashioned, but it’s important to use them sparingly. Too much cherry flavor can make the drink overly sweet. Consider experimenting with different bitters to find a balance that you enjoy.
What are some good brands of high-quality maraschino cherries besides Luxardo?
Several brands offer high-quality maraschino cherries, including Fabbri Amarena cherries, Traverse City Whiskey Co. cherries, and various small-batch or artisanal producers. Always read reviews and check ingredient lists to ensure you’re getting a product that meets your standards.