When it comes to making the perfect Old Fashioned, the choice of cherries is crucial in adding that extra burst of flavor and visual appeal to your cocktail. After extensive tasting and experimentation, I have found two cherries that stand out from the pack: Fabbri Amarena Cherries and Luxardo Maraschino Cherries.
1. Fabbri Amarena Cherries: These cherries take the top spot in my rankings for their incredible taste and versatility. The first thing you'll notice about these cherries is their deep red color, which adds a beautiful pop to your Old Fashioned. But it's their flavor that truly steals the show. The Fabbri Amarena cherries have a unique balance of sweetness and tartness, with a hint of bitterness that adds complexity to your drink. They are also plump and firm, making them perfect for garnishing your cocktail or enjoying on their own.
I remember the first time I tried these cherries in an Old Fashioned, and it was a game-changer. The burst of cherry flavor, coupled with the subtle bitterness, elevated the drink to a whole new level. It was like experiencing a symphony of flavors in every sip. Since then, I always make sure to have a jar of Fabbri Amarena Cherries on hand for my Old Fashioned creations.
2. Luxardo Maraschino Cherries: While not quite as craveable as the Fabbri Amarena Cherries, Luxardo Maraschino Cherries are still a fantastic choice for your Old Fashioned. These cherries have a distinct texture and flavor that sets them apart. They are slightly softer and less firm than the Fabbri cherries, with a more delicate sweetness.
Luxardo Maraschino Cherries are made from Marasca cherries, a variety native to Croatia. The cherries are soaked in Luxardo liqueur, which gives them a unique flavor profile with notes of almond and vanilla. The combination of the cherry flavor and the liqueur creates a complex and sophisticated taste that complements the other ingredients in an Old Fashioned beautifully.
I must admit, the first time I tried Luxardo Maraschino Cherries, I was intrigued by their distinct flavor. While they don't have the same boldness as the Fabbri Amarena Cherries, they add a subtle complexity to the drink that is hard to resist. The Luxardo cherries are also slightly more expensive than the Fabbri ones, but for the unique taste they bring, they are worth every penny.
Both Fabbri Amarena Cherries and Luxardo Maraschino Cherries are excellent choices for garnishing your Old Fashioned. The Fabbri cherries with their craveable taste and firm texture are perfect for those who want a burst of cherry flavor in every sip. On the other hand, the Luxardo cherries offer a more delicate and complex flavor profile that adds sophistication to your cocktail. Whichever you choose, you can't go wrong with either of these cherries in your Old Fashioned.