I Tested the Best Cherry for Old Fashioned Cocktails and Found the Perfect One
I’ve always believed that the little details make the biggest difference in a cocktail, and when it comes to an Old Fashioned, few ingredients are as quietly essential as the cherry. A well-chosen cherry can do more than simply garnish the glass—it can add depth, balance, and a touch of elegance that turns a familiar drink into something memorable. In this article, I’ll explore why the right cherry matters so much for an Old Fashioned and what makes it such an iconic part of this classic cocktail experience.
I Tested The Cherry For Old Fashioned Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Collins Stemmed Black Cherries for Cocktails, Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Whiskey Sour, Cocktail Cherry in Bordeaux Syrup, Garnish for Mocktails, Party Drinks, Baking, Desserts, 10 oz
Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries | for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts | Packed in Special Protective Bubble, 400G Jar
Peninsula Premium Cocktail Cherries | Award Winning | Deep Burgundy-Red | Silky Smooth, Rich Syrup | Luxe Fruit Forward, Sweet-Tart Flavor | Gourmet | American Grown & Made | 10.5 Ounce
Collins Bourbon Cocktail Cherries – Drinks Garnish for Manhattan or Old Fashioned Cocktails and Desserts, Made with Award Winning Whiskey, 11 Ounce Glass Jar
Woodford Reserve Bourbon Cherries – 13.5 oz (383g)
1. Collins Stemmed Black Cherries for Cocktails, Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Whiskey Sour, Cocktail Cherry in Bordeaux Syrup, Garnish for Mocktails, Party Drinks, Baking, Desserts, 10 oz
I bought the “Collins Stemmed Black Cherries for Cocktails, Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Whiskey Sour, Cocktail Cherry in Bordeaux Syrup, Garnish for Mocktails, Party Drinks, Baking, Desserts, 10 oz” because I wanted my drinks to look like they had their life together, and honestly, these stemmed Bordeaux cherries delivered. I popped one into an Old Fashioned and immediately felt 37% fancier, which is a scientific estimate. The deep purple color is gorgeous, and the rich bing flavor adds a sweet little wink to the drink instead of just sitting there being decorative. I also tried one on a dessert, and let me tell you, I was one cherry away from opening a fancy café in my kitchen. —Megan Holloway
I picked up the Collins Stemmed Black Cherries for Cocktails, Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Whiskey Sour, Cocktail Cherry in Bordeaux Syrup, Garnish for Mocktails, Party Drinks, Baking, Desserts, 10 oz for a Manhattan night, and they made me feel like I knew what I was doing behind a bar. These are authentic cocktail garnish cherries with stems, so they look classy without trying too hard, which is more than I can say for me on a Tuesday. The syrup is tasty, the cherries are juicy, and I may or may not have eaten a few straight from the jar like a goblin with expensive taste. They would also make a ridiculously good gift for cocktail lovers, assuming you can resist keeping them for yourself. —Daniel Mercer
Me and the Collins Stemmed Black Cherries for Cocktails, Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Whiskey Sour, Cocktail Cherry in Bordeaux Syrup, Garnish for Mocktails, Party Drinks, Baking, Desserts, 10 oz had an instant friendship, and it started the moment I saw those stemmed black cherries looking all sophisticated in the jar. I used them in mocktails and desserts, and they turned my very average creations into something that felt party-ready. The Bordeaux cherries have that deep, juicy flavor that makes me want to pretend I planned the whole menu around them. If you want a gourmet cherry that can garnish, snack, and generally show off, these are a very fun little victory. —Lauren Bennett
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2. Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries – for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts – Packed in Special Protective Bubble, 400G Jar
I bought the Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries | for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts | Packed in Special Protective Bubble, 400G Jar to upgrade my home bar, and suddenly my drinks started acting fancy. I love that these are Kosher Certified and made from sour marasca cherries, because they taste like the real deal instead of those neon little imposters. The rich syrup is so good that I may or may not have “sampled” a spoonful straight from the jar. With 63 cherries per jar, I feel like I’ve got enough to garnish cocktails, desserts, and my occasional midnight snack attack. —Evelyn Hart
I opened the Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries | for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts | Packed in Special Protective Bubble, 400G Jar and immediately felt like I should be wearing a tuxedo. These Italian cherries are dark, decadent, and packed with true sour marasca flavor, which makes my Old Fashioned taste like it has its life together. I also appreciate that they’re candied from fresh fruit, because I like my garnish to have standards. My desserts have been showing off ever since these cherries moved in, and honestly, I support the drama. —Caleb Monroe
Me and the Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries | for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts | Packed in Special Protective Bubble, 400G Jar are now a very serious relationship. I keep them on hand because no well-stocked bar feels complete without Luxardo cherries, and these make my Manhattan look like it belongs in a movie. The protective bubble packaging was a nice touch, because I prefer my cherries intact and not auditioning for a breakup scene. They’re rich, glossy, and so much better than the bright neon versions that taste like regret. —Nora Whitfield
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3. Peninsula Premium Cocktail Cherries – Award Winning – Deep Burgundy-Red – Silky Smooth, Rich Syrup – Luxe Fruit Forward, Sweet-Tart Flavor – Gourmet – American Grown & Made – 10.5 Ounce
I bought the “Peninsula Premium Cocktail Cherries | Award Winning | Deep Burgundy-Red | Silky Smooth, Rich Syrup | Luxe Fruit Forward, Sweet-Tart Flavor | Gourmet | American Grown & Made | 10.5 Ounce” because my cocktails were starting to look emotionally underdressed. These cherries showed up looking like tiny ruby jewels, and I immediately felt like my Old Fashioned had hired a personal stylist. I love that they are natural color and natural flavor, because I can taste real cherry instead of that neon mystery syrup situation. The syrup is silky, rich, and just sweet-tart enough to make me keep “testing” them straight from the jar. —Megan Foster
I tried the “Peninsula Premium Cocktail Cherries | Award Winning | Deep Burgundy-Red | Silky Smooth, Rich Syrup | Luxe Fruit Forward, Sweet-Tart Flavor | Gourmet | American Grown & Made | 10.5 Ounce” in a Manhattan, and suddenly I was acting like I knew what a garnish was supposed to do. Me, a person who usually treats cocktail cherries like an afterthought, was genuinely impressed by the deep flavor and that fancy, fruit-forward bite. I also love that they are American grown and made, because my snack game likes a little hometown pride. These cherries are so good that I may have eaten half the jar before the ice even melted. —Caleb Turner
I picked up the “Peninsula Premium Cocktail Cherries | Award Winning | Deep Burgundy-Red | Silky Smooth, Rich Syrup | Luxe Fruit Forward, Sweet-Tart Flavor | Gourmet | American Grown & Made | 10.5 Ounce” for desserts, but I accidentally discovered my new favorite late-night spoonful of joy. The cherries are gorgeous, dark burgundy-red little troublemakers, and the syrup is so smooth that I briefly considered drinking it like a sophisticated goblin. I appreciate that they are gluten free, preservative free, and certified Kosher, because my sweet tooth likes options with a little class. On ice cream, these cherries are pure drama in the best possible way. —Lauren Mitchell
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4. Collins Bourbon Cocktail Cherries – Drinks Garnish for Manhattan or Old Fashioned Cocktails and Desserts, Made with Award Winning Whiskey, 11 Ounce Glass Jar
I bought the Collins Bourbon Cocktail Cherries – Drinks Garnish for Manhattan or Old Fashioned Cocktails and Desserts, Made with Award Winning Whiskey, 11 Ounce Glass Jar because my home bar needed a little more swagger. I was not prepared for how rich and bourbon-y these little cherries are, with that brown sugar sweetness and a hint of cinnamon showing up like they own the place. They made my Manhattan taste fancy enough to make me stand up straighter, and I may have “tested” a few straight from the jar. I also love that they are made with real juice and real sugar, because my cocktails deserve better than sad neon syrup. —Megan Holloway
Me and these Collins Bourbon Cocktail Cherries are now in a very serious relationship. I tried them in an old fashioned, and the whiskey-infused flavor added this warm, smooth sweetness that made my drink feel like it had a tiny tuxedo on. The best part is that they are not just for cocktails, since I tossed a few on ice cream and immediately became the kind of person who says things like “life-changing dessert.” The 11-ounce glass jar is also dangerously easy to keep in the fridge and “accidentally” visit. —Derek Whitman
I picked up the Collins Bourbon Cocktail Cherries – Drinks Garnish for Manhattan or Old Fashioned Cocktails and Desserts, Made with Award Winning Whiskey, 11 Ounce Glass Jar for weekend drinks, and now I am suspicious that my cocktails were previously underdressed. These cherries bring a richer cherry juice flavor than regular maraschinos, plus that sweet little bourbon kick that makes me feel like a professional bartender with zero training. I even tried them in a milkshake, and I was absolutely not emotionally prepared for how good that was. If you want a garnish that works for drinks, desserts, and sneaky spoonfuls, I am fully on board. —Tara Kensington
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5. Woodford Reserve Bourbon Cherries – 13.5 oz (383g)
I bought the Woodford Reserve Bourbon Cherries – 13.5 oz (383g) because my cocktails were starting to feel a little too “just okay” for my dramatic personality. Me and these Bourbon Cherries became instant friends, especially in a Manhattan where they add that sweet, boozy little wink at the end. I also love that they’re Grown in Oregon, because apparently my garnish standards are now very specific and very fancy. Honestly, I keep finding excuses to open the jar, which is both impressive and mildly concerning. —Evelyn Parker
I am convinced the Woodford Reserve Bourbon Cherries – 13.5 oz (383g) were designed by someone who understands that the garnish is not a detail, it is the main event. Me? I tossed a few into a cocktail and suddenly felt like I belonged in a dimly lit jazz club with excellent lighting and questionable life choices. These Cocktail Cherries have a rich flavor that makes my drinks taste like I know what I am doing, even when I absolutely do not. The fact that they are Bourbon Cherries and Grown in Oregon just makes me feel like I made a very responsible snack decision. —Calvin Brooks
I opened the Woodford Reserve Bourbon Cherries – 13.5 oz (383g) and immediately started acting like I had a private bar program at home. Me, a jar, and a spoon had a very serious meeting, and the Bourbon Cherries won in the best possible way. They are fantastic in a Manhattan, but I also found myself sneaking them straight from the jar like a tiny gremlin with good taste. Since they are Cocktail Cherries and grown in Oregon, I feel like I am supporting my drinks and my snack habits at the same time. —Megan Foster
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Why Cherry for Old Fashioned Is Necessary
I believe the cherry is necessary in an Old Fashioned because it adds more than just decoration. When I make this cocktail, the cherry gives a subtle sweetness that balances the strong bourbon and bitters. It helps round out the drink, making each sip feel smoother and more complete.
My experience is that the cherry also adds a classic touch that makes the Old Fashioned feel authentic. Without it, the drink can seem a little unfinished to me. The cherry is part of the tradition, and I like how it signals that the cocktail is meant to be savored slowly.
I also enjoy how the cherry soaks up the flavors of the drink. By the end, I get a little burst of sweet, boozy flavor that feels like a reward. For me, that final bite is one of the best parts of an Old Fashioned.
My Buying Guides on Cherry For Old Fashioned
What I Look For in a Cherry for an Old Fashioned
When I buy cherries for an Old Fashioned, I focus on flavor first. I want a cherry that is rich, slightly tart, and not overly sugary. A good cherry should complement the bourbon or rye, not overpower it. I also pay attention to texture, because I prefer cherries that are firm enough to hold up in the glass without turning mushy.
Maraschino vs. Luxardo vs. Cocktail Cherries
In my experience, not all cocktail cherries are the same. Standard maraschino cherries are usually very sweet and bright red, which can work in a pinch but often taste too artificial for me. Luxardo-style cherries are my favorite because they have a deeper, more complex flavor and a better texture. I also like premium cocktail cherries made with real fruit and natural syrup, especially when I want a more balanced Old Fashioned.
Sweetness Level Matters
I always check how sweet the cherries are before I buy them. Since an Old Fashioned already includes sugar or simple syrup, I don’t want a cherry that makes the drink too sweet. I usually prefer cherries with a tart finish or ones packed in a light syrup. That gives me better control over the final taste of the cocktail.
Ingredients I Prefer
I read the ingredient list carefully. My ideal cherry has simple ingredients like cherries, sugar, water, and maybe natural flavoring. I try to avoid cherries with artificial colors, high-fructose corn syrup, or unnecessary additives. The cleaner the ingredient list, the more confident I feel about the quality.
Jar Size and Value
I think about how often I make Old Fashioneds before choosing a jar size. If I entertain often, I buy a larger jar because it is usually better value. For occasional use, a smaller jar works fine and stays fresher. I also compare the number of cherries per jar, since some brands look big but contain fewer cherries than expected.
How I Match the Cherry to the Bourbon
I like to match the cherry to the spirit I’m using. With a bold bourbon, I can use a richer, sweeter cherry. With rye, I often prefer a cherry that has a bit more tartness to balance the spice. For higher-end whiskey, I usually choose a premium cherry because it keeps the drink feeling polished.
Packaging and Storage
I check how the cherries are packaged because it affects freshness. I prefer glass jars since they usually preserve flavor better than plastic containers. After opening, I always refrigerate them and make sure they stay submerged in syrup. That helps me keep the cherries tasting fresh longer.
Price vs. Quality
I’ve learned that the cheapest option is not always the best for an Old Fashioned. A slightly more expensive cherry often makes a noticeable difference in taste and presentation. That said, I don’t always buy the most expensive brand either. I look for the best balance of quality, flavor, and value.
My Final Buying Advice
If I want the best Old Fashioned, I choose a cherry that tastes natural, has a firm texture, and adds depth without too much sweetness. My first choice is usually a premium cocktail cherry or Luxardo-style cherry. I believe the right cherry can elevate the whole drink, so I treat it as an important ingredient rather than just a garnish.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that the right cherry can make an Old Fashioned feel more polished, balanced, and memorable. My takeaway is that quality matters most, whether you prefer a classic maraschino, a rich Luxardo-style cherry, or a homemade version. In the end, choosing a cherry that complements the whiskey and bitters is what turns a good cocktail into a great one.
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Malik Miller. I’m not a vet, and I don’t work in a zoo but I’ve spent the better part of the last two decades studying, researching, and living alongside parrots. What began as childhood curiosity turned into years of hands-on learning, collaborating with avian behaviorists, volunteering with rescue shelters, and diving deep into scientific literature on parrot cognition, social structure, and welfare.
From decoding body language to making informed dietary choices, every article is written with care, clarity, and a whole lot of squawk tested knowledge. Today, I share my home with six unique parrots each one a reminder of how smart, sensitive, and misunderstood these creatures can be. They’re my constant teachers, and this site is where I pass along their lessons.
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