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What are Luxardo cherries? Here’s a quick look at this popular co*cktail garnish and when it’s absolutely necessary for your drink.
Got a co*cktail recipe that calls for Luxardo cherries? Wondering whether they’re worth seeking out, or paying the extra cash? Turns out, these fancy cherries are something altogether different from the standard Maraschino. Take one bite and you’ll be amazed. The intensity in the flavor makes them worth every penny. And there are some co*cktails like the Manhattan that require nothing but the best: a Luxardo cherry on top. Here’s more about them and the top co*cktails where they’re an absolute must.
What are Luxardo cherries?
Luxardo cherriesare the original co*cktail cherry, invented back in 1905. They’re small and so dark red they almost look black. Preserved in cherry syrup, their flavor is so intense and complex, you’ll give up on Maraschinos entirely. Luxardo cherries have a pop of flavor: they’re rich, sweet tart, and fruity, with a nutty amaretto-like finish.
The Luxardo distillery was founded in Croatia in 1821 and was famous for making Maraschino, a cherry liqueur made from Marasca cherries that’s used in several classic co*cktails. In the 1880’s, the distillery started selling preserved cherries candied in a syrup made of Marasca cherry. These “Luxardo cherries” caught on and were used as a garnish in many classic co*cktails of the day. Today these special cherries are manufactured in Italy.
What about Maraschino cherries, the bright red kind you’ll see in a Shirley Temple? Well, that type of cherries came later: they’re an American knockoff of the original that came about in the 1920’s. (Figures.)
When to use Luxardo vs Maraschino cherries?
Here’s the most important question: when should you use Luxardo cherries, since they’re harder to find and more expensive than the more standard Maraschino? Well, they taste that good. The flavor difference is like…eating a rich, dark chocolate homemade brownie vs chocolate chip cookies from a vending machine. Here’s when you should use Luxardo cherries in a co*cktail:
- When you want the absolute best, sophisticated flavor. The complex sweetness of the flavor is loads more interesting than cloyingly sweet maraschino cherries.
- When you’ve got a simple drink, it’s great the chance to use a Luxardo. Think Old Fashioned.
- When you’re drinking a classic co*cktail customarily uses one: think the Manhattan, Last Word, and El Presidente. See below for our top 10 co*cktails with this special cherry!
Where to find Luxardo cherries?
Luxardo cherries were hard to find in the US until 2004, when bartender Audrey Saunders imported them for her famous New York City bar, the Pegu Club (source). Luckily, they’re easy to find today! Check at your local liquor store, or it’s easy to get them online.
Top 10 co*cktails with Luxardo cherries
What are the best co*cktails with Luxardo cherries? Don’t even think about making a Manhattan with a Maraschino cherry. Here are the top drinks that use it as a garnish:
This sophisticated whiskey drink was invented in the 1870's and has stood the test of time. With only three ingredients, there’s so much going on in one sip! Always garnish with a Luxardo cherry.
Also try: Bourbon Manhattan, Brandy Manhattan or Black Manhattan
This pale green gin sour is aclassic co*cktail from the early 1900'sthat was all but lost to history. But with the revival of co*cktail culture, this one’s come back strong! It’s equal parts sharp, sweet, and sour. And it's not a Last Word without the classic Luxardo cherry.
What if you’re a Scotch lover and a Manhattan lover? Make the Rob Roy! The Rob Roy drink is a Manhattan made with Scotch whisky instead of bourbon or rye. Top it off with a Luxardo cherry or two.
Here’s a1920’s co*cktailthat’s all about charm: theMary Pickfordco*cktail! Take one sip and it’s intriguing: pleasantly sweet and sour from the pineapple juice with a slightly funky finish from the Maraschino. There’s more to this pretty pink drink than you’d expect!
Here’s a1920’s slow sipperthat’s begging to be part of your co*cktail repertoire: theEl Presidente! This Cuban classic never soared quite as high as thedaiquirior themojito, but it’s something special in its own right.
This unique classic co*cktail comes from New Orleans: the name means “French Quarter” in French. It’s strong and alcohol forward, made with rye whiskey, Cognac and bitters. Top it off with a Luxardo cherry for a sophisticated finish.
Here's a 1900's sour co*cktail that's been revived: the Aviation! This purple drink tastes as great as it looks: it’s sweet tart, with a hint of cherry and a floral nuance that come from maraschino liqueur and crème de violette.
The La Louisiane is a co*cktail that hails from New Orleans, made with rye whiskey, absinthe, vermouth and Benedictine. This unique mixed drink is a classic co*cktail from the 1800’s that most people have never heard of!
Love a Manhattan? Then you absolutely must try this unique spin: the Brooklyn co*cktail! The Brooklyn is similarly spirit forward, with a few special twists to add nuance. Maraschino liqueur and dry vermouth add intrigue and round out the flavor in this sophisticated drink...and of course, the classic Luxardo garnish!
Looking for a unique classic co*cktail to impress? Try the Bijou! This drink was invented in the 1890's and was named for the colors of glittering jewels of the three liquors that make it up. Top it off with a Luxardo cherry.
Top co*cktails with Luxardo Cherries!
- Author: Sonja Overhiser
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 drink 1x
Description
Here are the secrets to the best Manhattan! This easy classic co*cktail is made with just three ingredients and always, always topped with a Luxardo cherry. For 9 more co*cktails with Luxardo cherries, see above.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 ounces (4 tablespoons) rye whiskey or bourbon (or brandy for a Brandy Manhattan)
- 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) sweet red vermouth
- 3 dashes Angostura or orange bitters
- Garnish: Luxardo cherry or other co*cktail cherry
Instructions
- Combine the whiskey, vermouth and bitters in a co*cktail mixing glass (or any other type of glass). Fill the mixing glass with 1 handful ice and stir continuously for 30 seconds.
- Strain into a coupe or co*cktail glass. Garnish with a cherry and serve.
- Category: Drink
- Method: Stirred
- Cuisine: co*cktails
- Diet: Vegan
Keywords: Luxardo cherries
More co*cktail guides
Need more guides to mixing up co*cktails? Here’s what you need to know:
- Absinthe GuideThis formerly banned liquor is now in good graces.
- Aperol GuideandCampari GuideAll you need to know about these Italian liqueurs.
- Baileys GuideAll the ins and outs of Irish Cream.
- Chartreuse GuideThis pale green liqueur is worth adding to your collection…here’s why.
- Cointreau Guide,Blue Curacao Guide,orOrange Liqueur GuideCitrus liqueurs…broken down.
- Galliano GuideIs this bright yellow liqueur worth buying?
- Grenadine GuideIt’s mistaken as cherry, but this bright syrup has a secret.
- Fernet Branca GuideHere’s why people love this Italian bitter.
- Kahlua GuideLearn about this popular Mexican coffee liqueur
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About the authors
Sonja & Alex
Meet Sonja and Alex Overhiser: Husband and wife. Expert home cooks. Authors of recipes you’ll want to make again and again.
