Cherries, with their vibrant colors and irresistible sweetness, are a beloved fruit enjoyed by people around the world. From deep red Bing cherries to golden yellow Rainier cherries, there is a wide variety of cherry types that cater to different tastes and culinary uses. In this article, we will explore the different types of cherries based on their color and taste, highlighting their unique characteristics and flavors.
Key Takeaways:
- Cherries can be categorized into sweet and sour (tart) varieties.
- Sweet cherries are best for eating fresh, while sour cherries are ideal for cooking or baking.
- Popular sweet cherry varieties include Bing, Lapin, and Rainier cherries.
- Notable sour cherry varieties include Morello, Montmorency, and Early Richmond cherries.
- Black cherries, yellow cherries, and unique cherry varieties offer diverse flavors and characteristics.
Sweet Cherry Varieties
When it comes to sweet cherries, there are several delicious varieties to choose from. These cherries are known for their sweet flavor and deep red color, making them a favorite among cherry lovers. Let’s take a closer look at some popular sweet cherry varieties:
Bing Cherries
Bing cherries are one of the most well-known and widely enjoyed sweet cherry varieties. They have a deep red color, round shape, and a glossy skin. Bing cherries are plump and juicy, with a rich sweetness that makes them perfect for eating fresh.
Lapin Cherries
Lapin cherries are a rare and sought-after variety. They have a firm texture and a wonderfully sweet flavor. With their dark red color and slightly larger size, Lapin cherries are a real treat for cherry enthusiasts.
Rainier Cherries
Rainier cherries stand out with their unique appearance. These cherries have a yellow skin with a slight pink blush, and their flesh is creamy and sweet. Rainier cherries are best enjoyed fresh and are often used in salads or desserts to add a touch of sweetness.
These sweet cherry varieties provide a range of flavors and textures, allowing cherry lovers to enjoy the sweetness of these fruits in various ways. Whether you prefer the classic Bing cherries, the rare Lapin cherries, or the unique Rainier cherries, one thing is certain – sweet cherries are a delightful treat.
| Cherry Variety | Color | Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Bing Cherries | Deep red | Sweet |
| Lapin Cherries | Dark red | Sweet |
| Rainier Cherries | Yellow with a pink blush | Creamy and sweet |
Sour Cherry Varieties
Sour cherries, also known as tart cherries, have a tangy and acidic flavor that sets them apart from their sweet counterparts. These cherries are versatile and widely used in various culinary applications, especially in baking and cooking. Let’s explore some popular sour cherry varieties:
Morello Cherries
Morello cherries are highly prized for their sour taste and deep red color. They are commonly used in pies, tarts, preserves, and sauces. With their bold flavor, Morello cherries add a delightful tartness that balances well with sweet ingredients.
Montmorency Cherries
Montmorency cherries are a popular sour cherry variety grown primarily in the United States, particularly in Michigan. Renowned for their bright red color and strong tartness, Montmorency cherries are often used in desserts, jams, and beverages. They are a fantastic choice for cherry pies and offer a tangy burst of flavor.
Early Richmond Cherries
Early Richmond cherries are one of the first sour cherries to ripen in the season. They feature pale red skin and juicy yellow flesh. These cherries are commonly used in making pies, preserves, and sauces due to their tartness and ability to hold up well in cooking.
When it comes to sour cherries, these varieties – Morello, Montmorency, and Early Richmond – offer distinctive flavors and characteristics that enhance a wide range of culinary creations.
| Cherry Variety | Flavor | Color | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morello Cherries | Tart | Deep red | Pies, tarts, preserves, sauces |
| Montmorency Cherries | Tart | Bright red | Desserts, jams, beverages |
| Early Richmond Cherries | Tart | Pale red | Pies, preserves, sauces |
Black Cherry Varieties
Black cherries are known for their dark skin and sweet flavor. They are a popular choice for both eating fresh and using in various culinary creations. Here are a few noteworthy black cherry varieties:
Black Tartarian Cherries
One of the most beloved black cherry varieties is the Black Tartarian. These cherries start off as bright red and gradually turn into a deep purple color as they ripen. Black Tartarian cherries are delicious when eaten fresh and also work well in pies, tarts, and other desserts. They have a rich, sweet flavor that is sure to satisfy any cherry lover’s palate.
Black Eagle Cherries
Another fantastic black cherry variety is the Black Eagle. These cherries have a lusciously sweet taste with a hint of Port Wine flavor. The dark, almost black skin of Black Eagle cherries is visually striking, and their juicy flesh makes them a delightful treat. Enjoy them on their own, or use them in recipes that call for black cherries to add a touch of elegance and sweetness.
When it comes to black cherries, both the Black Tartarian and Black Eagle varieties offer unique flavors and qualities that make them stand out. Whether you prefer the deep purple hue of the Black Tartarian or the syrupy sweetness of the Black Eagle, these black cherry varieties are sure to satisfy your cravings for a sweet and satisfying fruit.
| Variety | Color | Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Black Tartarian | Deep purple | Rich and sweet |
| Black Eagle | Dark, almost black | Syrupy sweetness with a hint of Port Wine flavor |
Yellow Cherry Varieties
Yellow cherries, such as Rainier and White Gold varieties, are a delightful addition to any fruit bowl or dessert. With their golden yellow skin and sweet, almost candied flavor, they bring a burst of sunshine to every bite. These yellow cherries are best enjoyed fresh, but they also add a touch of sweetness when incorporated into salads or desserts.
The Rainier Cherry
One of the most famous yellow cherry varieties is the Rainier cherry. Named after Mount Rainier in Washington State, these cherries have a stunning yellow skin with a slight blush of pink. Rainier cherries are known for their delicate and juicy flesh, which has a creamy texture and a sweet, floral taste. They are a popular choice for snacking and are often considered a gourmet cherry.
The White Gold Cherry
Another yellow cherry variety to savor is the White Gold cherry. These cherries have a pale yellow skin and a sweet, honey-like flavor that is truly irresistible. White Gold cherries are slightly smaller in size compared to other cherry varieties, but what they lack in size, they make up for in taste. These cherries are perfect for enjoying on their own or for adding a pop of color to desserts and cocktails.
Whether you choose the Rainier cherry or the White Gold cherry, both yellow cherry varieties offer a unique and delightful flavor profile. Their sunny appearance and sweet taste make them a favorite among cherry connoisseurs, and they are sure to brighten up any dish or occasion.
| Cherry Variety | Color | Taste |
|---|---|---|
| Rainier | Golden yellow with a pink blush | Creamy, sweet, and floral |
| White Gold | Pale yellow | Sweet and honey-like |
Unique Cherry Varieties
While there are many delightful cherry varieties available, some stand out with their unique characteristics. These cherries offer a distinct taste and appearance that make them a special addition to any fruit selection or recipe. Let’s explore three unique cherry varieties: Coral Champagne cherries, Napoleon cherries, and Royal Ann cherries.
Coral Champagne Cherries
Coral Champagne cherries are a stunning variety with a deep coral exterior and a sweet, juicy flavor. These cherries make a beautiful addition to fruit salads and desserts, adding vibrant color and a burst of sweetness. With their unique appearance and delightful taste, Coral Champagne cherries are sure to impress both visually and in flavor.
Napoleon Cherries
Napoleon cherries have a yellow-red skin that adds a touch of sunshine to any fruit bowl. Known for their sweet, slightly tangy taste, they are a popular choice for snacking and baking. Whether enjoyed on their own or incorporated into pies and other desserts, Napoleon cherries bring a delightful flavor that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Royal Ann Cherries
Also known as Queen Anne cherries, Royal Ann cherries are pale yellow in color and have a delicate sweetness. These cherries are often used for making maraschino cherries, but they are equally enjoyable on their own. Royal Ann cherries offer a subtle yet delightful flavor that is perfect for enhancing both sweet and savory dishes.
| Cherry Variety | Appearance | Taste |
|---|---|---|
| Coral Champagne Cherries | Deep coral exterior | Sweet and juicy |
| Napoleon Cherries | Yellow-red skin | Sweet and slightly tangy |
| Royal Ann Cherries | Pale yellow | Delicate and sweet |
These unique cherry varieties, including Coral Champagne cherries, Napoleon cherries, and Royal Ann cherries, offer a delightful twist on the classic cherry flavor. Whether enjoyed on their own, added to dishes, or used for baking, these cherries bring a touch of uniqueness to any culinary creation.
Lesser-Known Cherry Varieties
While there are many well-known cherry varieties, there are also some lesser-known gems that are equally delicious. These cherry varieties may not be as widely recognized, but they offer unique flavors and qualities that are worth exploring.
Viva Cherries
A standout among lesser-known cherries, Viva cherries are medium-sized with a beautiful deep red color. They have a sweet and delicious flavor that is sure to please cherry enthusiasts. Viva cherries are versatile and can be enjoyed fresh or used in various culinary creations.
Sam Cherries
If you enjoy the taste of Bing cherries but crave a little more tartness, Sam cherries are the perfect choice. These cherries have a similar flavor profile to Bing cherries but with a slightly tangier edge. Their rich, dark red color and firm texture make them visually appealing as well.
Sonnet Cherries
Sonnet cherries are large and vibrant with bright red skin. They ripen in the early to mid part of the cherry season, offering a burst of flavor and sweetness. With their juicy flesh and delicious taste, Sonnet cherries are a delightful addition to any cherry lover’s palate.
These lesser-known cherry varieties, including Viva cherries, Sam cherries, and Sonnet cherries, may not be as widely recognized as some other varieties, but they certainly deserve a place in the spotlight. Each of these unique cherries offers its own distinct flavor and characteristics, adding diversity and excitement to the world of cherries.
| Cherry Variety | Flavor | Color |
|---|---|---|
| Viva Cherries | Sweet | Deep Red |
| Sam Cherries | Tart with a hint of sweetness | Dark Red |
| Sonnet Cherries | Sweet | Bright Red |
Wild Cherry Varieties
Wild cherries are a unique and intriguing category of cherry varieties. They offer different flavors and characteristics compared to the more common sweet and sour cherries. Let’s explore a few notable wild cherry varieties:
Pin Cherries
Pin cherries are small, tart, and vibrant red in color. They are commonly used in making jams, jellies, and pies. Despite their tartness, pin cherries have a pleasant sweetness that balances their tangy flavor. These cherries grow on pin cherry trees, which are native to North America.
Bullace Cherries
Bullace cherries are closely related to plums and have a unique flavor profile. They are known for their tart and slightly astringent taste. While not as common as other cherry varieties, bullace cherries offer a distinct culinary experience. Their flavor pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes.
Chokecherries
Chokecherries are dark red to almost black in color and are commonly used in making syrups, pie fillings, and other culinary creations. These cherries have a rich, slightly bitter taste that makes them a favorite for adding depth to various recipes. Chokecherries are also popular among wildlife, attracting birds and other animals to their trees.
| Wild Cherry Varieties | Flavor | Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Pin Cherries | Tart and sweet | Jams, jellies, and pies |
| Bullace Cherries | Tart and slightly astringent | Sweet and savory dishes |
| Chokecherries | Rich and slightly bitter | Syrups, pie fillings, and more |
These wild cherry varieties offer unique flavors and possibilities in the culinary world. Whether you’re looking to add a tangy twist to a classic recipe or explore new taste sensations, these cherries are sure to impress. Keep an eye out for these wild cherry varieties and embrace their distinctive qualities in your cooking and baking adventures.
Cherry Harvest and Availability
Cherries have a specific harvest and availability period, which varies depending on the variety and location. In the Northern Hemisphere, cherry harvests usually occur from mid-May to mid-September. It is important to note that this timeframe may vary slightly depending on the specific cherry variety and the region where it is grown. To ensure you enjoy the freshest cherries, it is recommended to check the season and availability of specific cherry varieties from local growers or markets.
During the cherry season, different varieties may become available at different times. Some early-season cherry varieties, such as the Early Richmond and Montmorency cherries, are typically harvested in late spring and early summer. These varieties are often used for making pies and sauces due to their tart flavor.
As the season progresses, a wide range of sweet cherry varieties, like Bing, Lapin, and Rainier, become available. These varieties are known for their luscious sweetness and are perfect for enjoying fresh or incorporating into various dishes and desserts. It’s worth noting that cherry availability may also depend on factors such as weather conditions and local farming practices.
| Cherry Variety | Harvest Season | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Early Richmond | Late spring to early summer | May to June |
| Montmorency | Mid-summer | June to July |
| Bing | Mid-summer to late summer | July to August |
| Lapin | Late summer | August to early September |
| Rainier | Late summer | August to early September |
Whether you’re a cherry enthusiast or simply enjoy the occasional taste of these juicy fruits, staying informed about the cherry harvest and availability ensures you can savor the best cherries at the peak of their freshness and flavor. So be sure to keep track of local harvest schedules and make the most of cherry season!
Conclusion
In summary, the world of cherry varieties is diverse and exciting. From sweet cherries like Bing, Lapin, and Rainier to tart sour cherries such as Morello and Montmorency, each type offers its own distinct flavor and culinary potential. Black cherries like Black Tartarian and Black Eagle bring a deep sweetness, while yellow cherries like Rainier and White Gold add a touch of sunshine to any dish.
Unique varieties like Coral Champagne, Napoleon, and Royal Ann bring their own special qualities to the table, while lesser-known cherries like Viva, Sam, and Sonnet offer hidden delights waiting to be discovered. And let’s not forget the wild cherries, like Pin, Bullace, and Chokecherries, with their wild and untamed flavors.
Whether you’re enjoying cherries fresh off the tree, baking them into a delicious pie, or preserving them for later use, there is a cherry variety to suit every taste and occasion. So explore the world of cherries and discover the joy of these delicious fruits. With their vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and myriad of culinary possibilities, cherries are truly nature’s gift to delight our senses.
FAQ
What are the different types of cherries based on color and taste?
Cherries can be categorized into sweet and sour varieties. Sweet cherries come in dark red, yellow, and black colors, while sour cherries are typically red.
What are some popular sweet cherry varieties?
Bing cherries, Lapin cherries, and Rainier cherries are among the most popular sweet cherry varieties. Bing cherries are deep red and glossy, Lapin cherries are rare and sweet, and Rainier cherries have a creamy, sweet taste with a yellow skin.
What are some popular sour cherry varieties?
Morello cherries, Montmorency cherries, and Early Richmond cherries are commonly used sour cherry varieties. Morello cherries are tart and ideal for pies and preserves, Montmorency cherries are extremely tart and great for baking, and Early Richmond cherries have a pale red skin and are often used in pies and sauces.
Are there any notable black cherry varieties?
Black Tartarian cherries turn dark purple and have a sweet flavor, while Black Eagle cherries have a syrupy sweetness with a hint of Port Wine flavor.
Which cherry varieties are yellow in color?
Rainier cherries and White Gold cherries are both yellow in color and have a sweet, almost candied flavor.
Are there any unique cherry varieties to look out for?
Coral Champagne cherries have a deep coral exterior and a sweet, juicy flavor, Napoleon cherries have a yellow-red skin and a sweet, slightly tangy taste, and Royal Ann cherries are pale yellow and commonly used for maraschino cherries.
What are some lesser-known cherry varieties?
Viva cherries are medium-sized with a sweet flavor, Sam cherries are similar to Bing cherries with a little more tartness, and Sonnet cherries are large and bright red, ripening in the early to mid part of the cherry season.
What are some examples of wild cherry varieties?
Pin cherries are small and tart, often used in jams, jellies, and pies. Bullace cherries are tart and astringent, closely related to plums. Chokecherries are dark red to almost black and commonly used in syrups and pie fillings.
When is cherry harvest and availability?
Cherry harvests usually occur from mid-May to mid-September in the Northern Hemisphere. However, it is best to check the season and availability of specific cherry varieties from local growers or markets.
