As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of working with various types of cherries, including Luxardo Maraschino cherries. When it comes to storing these cherries after opening, there seems to be some conflicting information out there. Some jars advise refrigeration, while Luxardo claims that it is fine to store the jar at room temperature, even once it's open. So, which is it?
First, let's understand a bit about Luxardo cherries. These cherries are not your average jarred cherries. They are made from Marasca cherries, which are a variety of sour cherries known for their unique flavor. Luxardo cherries are preserved in a syrup made from the cherry juice, along with sugar and alcohol.
One reason why some brands advise refrigeration is because it helps to preserve the texture and flavor of the cherries. Cold temperatures slow down the enzymatic activity in the fruit, preventing it from breaking down and becoming mushy. Additionally, refrigeration helps to inhibit the growth of bacteria and yeast, extending the shelf life of the cherries.
On the other hand, Luxardo cherries are preserved in alcohol, which acts as a natural preservative. The alcohol content in the cherries is relatively high, around 20%, which helps to prevent spoilage. This is why Luxardo claims that refrigeration is not necessary, as the alcohol in the cherries acts as a preservative even after the jar is opened.
However, it's important to note that Luxardo cherries are not pasteurized. Pasteurization is a process that involves heating the cherries to kill any bacteria or yeast present. Without pasteurization, there is a chance that some bacteria or yeast may still be present in the jar, even with the alcohol content. Refrigerating the cherries can help to further inhibit the growth of any potential contaminants.
In my personal experience, I have kept an opened jar of Luxardo cherries at room temperature for several months without any issues. The cherries remained delicious and the syrup retained its flavor. However, I have also refrigerated opened jars and found that the cherries stayed firmer and the syrup remained clearer.
While Luxardo claims that refrigeration is not necessary for their Maraschino cherries after opening, it is ultimately up to personal preference. Refrigeration can help to maintain the texture and flavor of the cherries, as well as inhibit the growth of any potential contaminants. However, if you choose to keep the jar at room temperature, make sure to consume the cherries within a reasonable timeframe and inspect them for any signs of spoilage before consuming.