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What are Luxardo cherries? Here’s a quick look at this popular cocktail garnish and when it’s absolutely necessary for your drink.

Luxardo cherries

Got a cocktail 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 cocktails like the Manhattan that require nothing but the best: a Luxardo cherry on top. Here’s more about them and the top cocktails where they’re an absolute must.

What are Luxardo cherries?

Luxardo cherries are the original cocktail 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 cocktails. 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 cocktails 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.)

Luxardo vs Maraschino cherries

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 cocktail:

  • 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 cocktail customarily uses one: think the Manhattan, Last Word, and El Presidente. See below for our top 10 cocktails 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 cocktails with Luxardo cherries

What are the best cocktails 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:

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Brandy Manhattan

Top Cocktails 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 cocktail is made with just three ingredients and always, always topped with a Luxardo cherry. For 9 more cocktails 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 cocktail cherry

Instructions

  1. Combine the whiskey, vermouth and bitters in a cocktail mixing glass (or any other type of glass). Fill the mixing glass with 1 handful ice and stir continuously for 30 seconds.
  2. Strain into a coupe or cocktail glass. Garnish with a cherry and serve.
  • Category: Drink
  • Method: Stirred
  • Cuisine: Cocktails
  • Diet: Vegan

Keywords: Luxardo cherries

More cocktail guides

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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.

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