14.1 oz jar

“Are Luxardo Cherries worth it?” ask some first time buyers. Yes, yes they are, they respond, lining up for their next jar. Girolamo Luxardo founded his company when he invented Maraschino liqueur in 1821, and cherries in the liqueur were added to the Luxardo brand in 1905. Thus, as the jar says, these are really the original Maraschino cherries.

Unlike the neon red cherries we find in the average Shirley Temple, Luxardo cherries have a deep cherry flavor and a luxurious syrup that’s not be missed. Spoon a few cherries and syrup onto vanilla ice cream, sprinkle with chopped walnuts, and you have an extra special sundae. These also make the BEST Manhattan. In case you’re inspired RIGHT NOW, here’s a Manhattan recipe:

Two parts bourbon
One part sweet vermouth
A few dashes Black Walnut Bitters
A teaspoon (or more) of Luxardo Cherry syrup
As many Luxardo cherries as you like (go crazy)

Shake with ice. Strain into a martini class if you’re feeling really classy. Or just any old glass if you’re not. Add cherries.