It’s hard to miss the Halloween decorations in every store (and the pumpkin spice…well, everything). Fall is here, and winter is right on its heels. As the weather turns cold, people tend to drink a lot more alcohol. It’s also what many call “whiskey weather,” inspiring more people to reach for brown liquors. So let’s embrace the cold, shall we?
With those Manhattan and Old Fashioned cocktails in mind, here are some good cherries to try with whiskey drinks.
- Amarena Cherries – Try these sweet European cherries for a flavorful addition to cocktails. Vinepair’s Emily Saladino writes, “Amarena cherries have a richer flavor than most fire-engine-red, mass produced jarred fruit, and we found they retain their shape and texture even within our booziest creations.”
2. Bourbon Cocktail Cherries – There are many bourbon-infused cherry varieties to choose from, but this one uses Kentucky Bourbon and fresh Oregon cherries. The stems are still attached and the color is a darker brown, with softer skin from the time soaking in alcohol. Enjoy an extra punch of bourbon in your whiskey, because why not?
3. Distilleries Peureux Griottines Cherries – These French treats are made from Oblacinska Morello fruit soaked in liquer and Kirsch. Matt Jennings, an award-winning chef in Boston, says they’re his go-to for Manhattans. “They’re delicious, but they’re intense, so one at the bottom is enough,” he cautions. They may have a candied texture, but they’re best in cocktails as opposed to snacks because of the strong flavor (but don’t let me stop you if you’re feeling adventurous).
