The Old Fashioned, a timeless cocktail revered for its simplicity and elegance, is more than just whiskey, sugar, bitters, and water. It’s a carefully constructed experience, where each ingredient plays a crucial role in the overall harmony. And nestled at the bottom of the glass, or perched elegantly on the rim, sits the cherry – a seemingly small detail that can significantly impact the drink’s flavor profile. But what kind of cherry reigns supreme in the world of Old Fashioneds? The answer, like the cocktail itself, is nuanced and often debated.
Understanding the Cherry’s Role in an Old Fashioned
Before diving into specific varieties, it’s important to understand what we’re looking for in an Old Fashioned cherry. It’s not merely a garnish; it’s a flavorful component that complements and enhances the whiskey. The ideal cherry should offer a balance of sweetness and tartness, with a texture that’s both pleasing and substantial. It should also be visually appealing, adding a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Historically, cherries weren’t always a part of the Old Fashioned. Early versions of the cocktail focused on the whiskey itself, with the other ingredients serving to subtly enhance its natural flavors. As cocktail culture evolved, bartenders began experimenting with various garnishes, and the cherry eventually became a standard addition, often used to balance the bitterness of the bitters and add a touch of sweetness.
The Contenders: Maraschino, Luxardo, and Beyond
The world of cocktail cherries extends far beyond the bright red, artificially flavored spheres often found in grocery stores. While those cherries, technically “maraschino,” have their place in some contexts, they’re generally considered a poor choice for an Old Fashioned by serious cocktail enthusiasts. The true debate centers around two main contenders: Luxardo cherries and “natural” maraschino cherries. However, exploring other options can broaden the horizons.
The Ubiquitous Maraschino Cherry (and Why It’s Usually Wrong)
Let’s address the elephant in the room. The neon-red maraschino cherry, swimming in a sugary syrup, is the most common type of cherry, but it’s rarely the best choice for an Old Fashioned. These cherries undergo a process of bleaching, dyeing, and soaking in high-fructose corn syrup, resulting in a flavor that’s overwhelmingly sweet and artificial. They lack the depth and complexity needed to complement the sophisticated flavors of a well-made Old Fashioned. The intense sweetness can also overpower the whiskey and bitters, disrupting the drink’s delicate balance.
Luxardo Cherries: The Gold Standard
Luxardo cherries are widely regarded as the gold standard for Old Fashioneds and other cocktails. These Italian cherries are preserved in a marasca cherry syrup, giving them a complex flavor profile that’s both sweet and tart. They have a rich, dark color and a firm, slightly chewy texture. The syrup itself is also a valuable ingredient, adding a subtle cherry flavor to the cocktail without being overly sweet. The quality of the Luxardo cherry is significantly higher than the standard maraschino, contributing to a more refined and balanced Old Fashioned.
The key difference between Luxardo cherries and typical maraschino cherries lies in the process and ingredients. Luxardo uses real marasca cherries, a specific variety grown in Italy, and preserves them in their own juice. This results in a more natural and authentic cherry flavor.
Natural Maraschino Cherries: A Middle Ground
Between the artificial maraschino cherries and the premium Luxardo cherries lies a middle ground: “natural” maraschino cherries. These cherries aim to replicate the classic maraschino flavor without the artificial colors and excessive sweetness. They are typically made with real cherries and natural sweeteners, offering a more balanced flavor than their neon-red counterparts. While they may not have the same depth and complexity as Luxardo cherries, they can be a decent option if you’re looking for a more affordable alternative. Several brands produce these, and the quality can vary considerably, so research and experimentation are key.
Other Cherry Options: Kirsch Cherries and Beyond
While Luxardo and natural maraschino cherries are the most popular choices, other cherry options can also be used in an Old Fashioned, depending on your personal preferences. For example, kirsch cherries, which are preserved in cherry liqueur, can add a unique and boozy twist to the cocktail. You might also find success with experimenting with dried cherries, or even fresh cherries when they are in season. Keep in mind that using fresh cherries often requires muddling and can change the nature of the drink. Ultimately, the best cherry is the one that you enjoy the most.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Cherry
Choosing the right cherry involves several factors: flavor profile, texture, appearance, and price.
Flavor Profile: Sweetness, Tartness, and Complexity
The most important factor is the flavor profile. Do you prefer a cherry that’s primarily sweet, or one with a balance of sweetness and tartness? Do you want a cherry with a complex, nuanced flavor, or a simpler, more straightforward one? Luxardo cherries offer a complex flavor profile with both sweet and tart notes, while standard maraschino cherries are overwhelmingly sweet. “Natural” maraschino cherries typically fall somewhere in between.
Texture: Firmness and Chewiness
The texture of the cherry is another important consideration. Do you prefer a cherry that’s firm and slightly chewy, or one that’s softer and more yielding? Luxardo cherries have a firm, slightly chewy texture, while standard maraschino cherries tend to be softer. Texture can contribute to the overall mouthfeel of the cocktail.
Appearance: Color and Presentation
The appearance of the cherry is also a factor, especially if you’re concerned with presentation. Luxardo cherries have a rich, dark color that adds a touch of elegance to the Old Fashioned. Standard maraschino cherries, with their bright red color, can look artificial and detract from the overall aesthetic. A dark, naturally colored cherry often presents a more sophisticated image.
Price: Balancing Quality and Budget
Finally, price is always a consideration. Luxardo cherries are significantly more expensive than standard maraschino cherries. “Natural” maraschino cherries offer a middle ground in terms of both price and quality. Evaluate how often you plan to make old fashioneds and how significant the cost difference is for your budget. A single jar of Luxardo cherries will last for a significant amount of time if stored properly.
How to Use Your Cherry in an Old Fashioned
Once you’ve chosen your cherry, it’s time to incorporate it into your Old Fashioned. The most common method is simply to drop the cherry into the glass after the cocktail has been prepared. Some people prefer to muddle the cherry with the sugar and bitters, which releases more of its flavor into the drink. However, muddling can also make the cocktail overly sweet and muddy the flavors.
Another option is to skewer the cherry and place it on the rim of the glass, which adds a touch of elegance and allows you to enjoy the cherry separately from the cocktail. You can also use the cherry syrup to sweeten the cocktail, reducing or eliminating the need for sugar. Experiment with different methods to find the one that you like best. The key is to use the cherry in a way that complements the other ingredients and enhances the overall flavor profile of the drink. Don’t discard the remaining syrup! It can be used in other cocktails, desserts, or even as a glaze for meats.
Perfecting Your Old Fashioned: Beyond the Cherry
While the cherry is an important component of an Old Fashioned, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. To create a truly exceptional Old Fashioned, you need to pay attention to every detail, from the quality of the whiskey to the type of bitters you use.
Selecting the right whiskey is paramount. Bourbon and rye are the most common choices, but other types of whiskey can also be used. Choose a whiskey that you enjoy drinking neat, as its flavors will be amplified in the Old Fashioned.
Bitters add depth and complexity to the cocktail. Angostura bitters are the classic choice, but other types of bitters, such as orange bitters or cherry bitters, can also be used. Experiment with different bitters to find the ones that you like best.
The type of sugar you use can also affect the flavor of the Old Fashioned. Simple syrup is a common choice, but you can also use a sugar cube or raw sugar. Muddle the sugar with the bitters until it dissolves completely before adding the whiskey.
Finally, don’t forget the ice. Use large ice cubes to keep the cocktail cold without diluting it too quickly. A single large cube or sphere is ideal.
Ultimately, the best Old Fashioned is the one that you enjoy the most. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and techniques to find your perfect recipe.
In Conclusion: Elevating Your Old Fashioned Experience
The choice of cherry in an Old Fashioned is far from a trivial matter. It’s a crucial decision that can significantly impact the drink’s flavor profile, texture, and overall presentation. While the neon-red maraschino cherry may be the most common option, it’s generally considered a poor choice by serious cocktail enthusiasts. Luxardo cherries, with their complex flavor, firm texture, and elegant appearance, are widely regarded as the gold standard. “Natural” maraschino cherries offer a middle ground in terms of both price and quality.
By carefully considering the factors outlined in this article, you can choose the perfect cherry to elevate your Old Fashioned experience. Remember to experiment with different options and find the one that best suits your personal preferences. And don’t forget to pay attention to the other details of the cocktail, from the quality of the whiskey to the type of bitters you use. With a little effort, you can create an Old Fashioned that’s truly exceptional. Remember the cherry is the jewel in the crown of this classic cocktail. Choose wisely and enjoy responsibly.
What are the most common types of cherries used in an Old Fashioned?
There are generally two main types of cherries used in Old Fashioneds: maraschino cherries and Luxardo cherries. Maraschino cherries, often bright red and overly sweet, are the most widely available and affordable option. They are processed with preservatives and artificial flavors, giving them a distinctive candy-like taste.
Luxardo cherries, on the other hand, are considered the premium choice. These are Italian sour marasca cherries preserved in their own juice and sugar, resulting in a rich, complex flavor that is both sweet and tart. They are more expensive but offer a significantly more sophisticated and nuanced taste that complements the spirit in an Old Fashioned.
Why are Luxardo cherries often preferred over maraschino cherries for an Old Fashioned?
Luxardo cherries are favored for their superior flavor profile. Unlike the artificially sweet and cloying taste of maraschino cherries, Luxardo cherries offer a more natural sweetness combined with a pleasant tartness. This complexity enhances the overall taste of the Old Fashioned, adding depth and sophistication.
The richer, deeper flavor of Luxardo cherries harmonizes better with the whiskey or bourbon used in an Old Fashioned. Their natural juice also contributes to the cocktail, adding subtle notes of cherry without overpowering the other ingredients. The overall experience is more refined and less artificial compared to using standard maraschino cherries.
How do the different brines of cherries impact the flavor of an Old Fashioned?
The brine or syrup in which cherries are preserved significantly impacts the final flavor of the Old Fashioned. Maraschino cherries typically come in a high-fructose corn syrup brine, contributing to their intensely sweet taste and lacking complexity. This can make the Old Fashioned overly sugary and mask the nuances of the whiskey.
Luxardo cherries, however, are preserved in a marasca cherry syrup, which provides a more balanced and natural sweetness along with a subtle tartness. This brine adds a layer of depth to the cocktail, complementing the flavors of the whiskey and bitters. Some other high-end cherry brands also use unique brines with hints of spices or other fruit essences, adding another dimension to the Old Fashioned.
Can I use fresh cherries in an Old Fashioned, and if so, how?
While not the traditional choice, fresh cherries can be used in an Old Fashioned, but it requires a bit of extra preparation. The ideal approach is to muddle a few fresh, pitted cherries with the sugar and bitters at the start of the cocktail-making process. This releases their juice and flavor, infusing it into the drink.
Keep in mind that fresh cherries will not offer the same concentrated sweetness as preserved cherries. You might need to adjust the amount of sugar used to achieve the desired level of sweetness. Also, consider that fresh cherries are seasonal, making them less consistently available compared to preserved options.
What are some alternative cherry brands to Luxardo that offer similar quality for an Old Fashioned?
While Luxardo cherries are widely considered the gold standard, several other brands offer excellent alternatives with comparable quality. Fabbri Amarena cherries, another Italian option, provide a similar rich flavor and texture, preserved in a slightly sweeter syrup. These offer a good balance between sweetness and tartness.
Another good alternative is Tillen Farms Bada Bing Cherries. These are also dark, sweet cherries preserved in their natural juices, offering a premium experience. They provide a robust cherry flavor that complements the whiskey in an Old Fashioned. Exploring these options allows you to find a cherry that suits your personal taste preferences and budget.
How does the color of the cherry affect the presentation of the Old Fashioned?
The color of the cherry significantly contributes to the visual appeal of the Old Fashioned. Bright red maraschino cherries can create a vibrant, albeit somewhat artificial, appearance. Their vivid color draws the eye and can signal a sweeter, more candy-like cocktail.
Darker cherries, like Luxardo or Fabbri, add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the drink. Their deep, rich color suggests a more complex and refined flavor profile. The darker hue complements the amber tones of the whiskey, creating a visually appealing and sophisticated presentation.
Beyond flavor, what other factors should I consider when choosing a cherry for my Old Fashioned?
Beyond the flavor and brine, consider the texture and size of the cherry. A firmer, meatier cherry provides a more satisfying bite and holds its shape better in the drink. Smaller cherries might get lost in the mix, while excessively large cherries can be overwhelming.
Also, consider the origin and ingredients of the cherry. Opt for cherries with natural ingredients and minimal artificial additives for a more authentic and potentially healthier option. Reading the label can reveal important details about the quality and sourcing of the cherries, allowing you to make a more informed choice.