Cherries

Empress

A medium sized, mahogany coloured variety with a subtly sweet flavour with a little tartness. Look for them early in the season.

Best enjoyed : fresh, in cherry brandy or liqueurs, pies, and jams.

Available : early November

Sweet Georgia

A late maturing selection of Lapins from Tasmania. Quality is excellent and shares similar qualities with the Lapin.

Best enjoyed : fresh, in preserves, jams, cherry brandy or liqueurs, tart fillings, dried, juiced, paired with cheeses, smoked meats, nuts, dark chocolate, wines, and yoghurt.

Available : January, about 14 days after Lapins

Stella

A medium to large heart shaped variety that are bright red with sweet, soft, and juicy flesh. They’re a popular tradition on Christmas.

Best enjoyed : fresh, in cherry brandy or liqueurs, pies, and jams.

Available : December, just before Christmas

Lapin

A.k.a the Christmas Cherry, are a large variety, with dark red to mahogany skin. They have firm, golden‐red flesh, and are sweet with balanced acidity and flavour.

Best enjoyed : fresh, in preserves, jams, cherry brandy or liqueurs, tart fillings, dried, juiced, paired with cheeses, smoked meats, nuts, dark chocolate, wines, and yoghurt.

Available : around Christmas to early January

Van

A medium to large variety with dark red - black skin and firm flesh. The flavour is robust with subtle tartness. Van cherries are available mid‐season.

Best enjoyed : fresh, in pies, sorbets, jams, jellies, sauces, with savoury foods such as meats, cheese, and leafy greens.

Available : December