It’s All In the Cherries

At the Manhattan Project, we believe nothing beats a Luxardo. To be truthful of late there have been some competition and we are busy enjoying, I mean taste testing a number of sweet red things so we can let you know what you might want to add to your next Manhattan. But first some history.

Cherries in a Manhattan cocktail serve several important purposes. First and foremost, they provide a burst of sweetness and flavor that complements the rich and complex taste of the whiskey and vermouth. The tartness of the cherries adds balance to the drink, cutting through the alcohol and adding a refreshing element to each sip.

Additionally, cherries provide a visually appealing garnish to the cocktail. The bright red color of the cherries stands out against the deep amber hue of the Manhattan, creating an attractive presentation that adds to the overall drinking experience. The cherry garnish adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the cocktail, making it visually appealing and inviting.

Furthermore, the use of cherries in a Manhattan is a traditional element of the drink that has been passed down through generations of mixologists. The combination of whiskey, vermouth, and cherries has long been a classic and beloved cocktail choice for many cocktail enthusiasts. By including cherries in a Manhattan, bartenders pay homage to the rich history and tradition of this iconic cocktail.

Cherries also provide a textural element to the drink, adding a juicy and chewy component that enhances the overall drinking experience. The pop of the cherry as you bite into it pairs perfectly with the smooth and velvety texture of the whiskey and vermouth, creating a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more.

In conclusion, cherries are an essential ingredient in a Manhattan cocktail for their flavor, visual appeal, tradition, and textural qualities. Their inclusion elevates the drink and enhances the overall drinking experience, making each sip a delightful and enjoyable moment to be savored.

Luxardo cherries and Maraschino cherries are both types of preserved cherries, but there are some differences between the two.

Luxardo cherries are made by marinating cherries in Luxardo marasca cherry syrup and other natural flavorings. They are dark red in color, firm in texture, and have a rich, boozy flavor. Luxardo cherries are often used as a garnish in cocktails, desserts, and other dishes.

Maraschino cherries are made by soaking cherries in a brine solution containing calcium chloride and other additives. They are then sweetened with sugar and flavored with almond extract. Maraschino cherries are bright red in color, soft in texture, and have a sweet, slightly artificial flavor. They are most commonly used as a garnish in cocktails, ice cream sundaes, and other desserts.

In summary, the main differences between Luxardo cherries and Maraschino cherries are their ingredients, flavor profiles, and textures. Luxardo cherries are darker in color, firmer in texture, and have a boozy flavor, while Maraschino cherries are brighter in color, softer in texture, and have a sweeter, more artificial flavor.