What is Luxardo Maraschino made of?

Answered by Bill Hernandez

Luxardo Maraschino is a unique and exquisite cherry liqueur that is crafted with great care and attention to detail. It is made from the Sour Marasca cherries, which are grown exclusively by the Luxardo family in the beautiful orchards of the Euganean Hills in Veneto, Italy. These cherries are known for their intense flavor and aromatic qualities, making them the perfect choice for the production of this exceptional liqueur.

The process of making Luxardo Maraschino starts with the careful selection of the finest Marasca cherries. These cherries are picked at the peak of ripeness, ensuring that they are bursting with flavor. The cherries, along with their stones, branches, and leaves, are then placed in traditional larchwood vats. This unique method allows the cherries to infuse with neutral over a period of two years.

The use of larchwood vats is an important aspect of the production process, as it imparts a distinct and complex flavor to the liqueur. The wood interacts with the cherries and alcohol, creating a rich and aromatic profile that is truly distinctive. This traditional method has been passed down through generations of the Luxardo family, ensuring that the quality and authenticity of Luxardo Maraschino are maintained.

During the infusion process, the flavors and aromas of the cherries are extracted, resulting in a deep red color and a delightful cherry essence. The stones, branches, and leaves contribute to the overall complexity of the liqueur, adding subtle notes and nuances to the final product.

After the two-year infusion period, the cherries are gently pressed to extract their precious juices. These juices are then blended with the infused alcohol, creating a harmonious and well-balanced liqueur. The addition of a small amount of sugar helps to round out the flavors and enhance the natural sweetness of the cherries.

Luxardo Maraschino is characterized by its smooth and velvety texture, with a rich and intense cherry flavor that is both sweet and tart. It can be enjoyed on its own as a digestif, or it can be used to add a unique twist to and culinary creations.

Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur is made from the finest Sour Marasca cherries, which are infused with neutral alcohol in larchwood vats for two years. The result is a clear and delightful cherry liqueur that is cherished by connoisseurs around the world.