In the beautiful Traverse City area of Michigan, there is a thriving cherry industry that is renowned for its sweet cherries. The region is famous for its production of golden sweet cherries, many of which are transformed into the beloved maraschino cherries that we often find adorning our desserts and cocktails. However, during the months of July and early August, the countryside around Traverse City comes alive with an abundance of sweet, dark cherries.
These cherries, with their deep, rich color, are a true delight for cherry lovers. They have a wonderfully sweet and slightly tart flavor that is incredibly refreshing, especially on a warm summer day. This unique combination of sweetness and tartness makes them incredibly versatile and perfect for a variety of culinary uses.
When you visit Traverse City during this cherry season, you will come across numerous stands, markets, and u-pick signs offering cartons of these delicious dark cherries. This is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the cherry-picking experience and savor the taste of freshly picked fruit. There is something incredibly satisfying about plucking cherries straight from the tree, feeling their juiciness on your fingertips, and popping them into your mouth.
The cherries that grow in Traverse City are typically of the sweet variety, but within this category, there are several different cultivars that offer their own unique characteristics. Some popular sweet cherry varieties that you may find in Traverse City include:
1. Bing Cherries: Bing cherries are perhaps the most well-known sweet cherries, known for their deep burgundy color and luscious, juicy flesh. They have a classic sweet cherry flavor with a hint of tartness, making them perfect for eating fresh or using in desserts like pies and tarts.
2. Rainier Cherries: Rainier cherries are a special treat with their pale yellow to golden skin and blush of red. They have a delicate sweetness that is less intense than other sweet cherries, but their flavor is incredibly nuanced and complex. Rainier cherries are often enjoyed fresh, as their delicate flesh doesn't hold up as well in cooking or baking.
3. Lambert Cherries: Lambert cherries are known for their large size and dark red color. They have a rich, sweet flavor with a slight tartness that adds depth to their taste. Lambert cherries are great for snacking, baking, or making preserves.
4. Royal Ann Cherries: Royal Ann cherries are a popular variety for making maraschino cherries. They have a creamy yellow color with a pink blush and offer a balance of sweetness and tartness. These cherries are often used in baking and canning as well.
5. Montmorency Cherries: While Traverse City is primarily known for its sweet cherries, it is also home to the famous Montmorency tart cherries. These cherries are bright red and have a distinct tart flavor. Montmorency cherries are highly sought after for making pies, jams, and cherry juice due to their tangy taste.
When it comes to cherries, Traverse City truly offers a bounty of flavors and options. Whether you prefer the sweet and juicy Bing cherries, the delicate and nuanced Rainier cherries, or the tart and vibrant Montmorency cherries, there is a cherry variety to suit every palate. So, if you ever find yourself in Traverse City during the cherry season, make sure to indulge in these delectable fruits and experience the true essence of cherry country.