Cherries & Wine—A Perfect Pair
When it comes to similarities between wine grapes and cherries, the list is surprisingly long. Chukar Cherries shares its flagship location with one of the best growing regions for these two fruits, Eastern Washington. In appreciation of National Wine Day, we at Chukar reflect on the Pacific Northwest’s natural bounty, similarities between wine grapes and cherries, and ways to celebrate.
The agricultural climate in eastern Washington has seen evolution and achievement when it comes to cherries and wine grapes. In the 1950’s the debut of Rainier cherries made history in the Prosser, WA area. In the 1970’s massive expansion of vineyards took advantage Eastern Washington’s idyllic terroirs. Since then the success stories and recognition of this area have skyrocketed. Washington state now ranks second in wine grape production and remains the first for sweet cherries.
Some fun facts you may not know are: Cherries and wine grapes appreciate similar growing climates with cool evenings and warm days. Not only are cherry orchards pruned with some of the same hand tools that prune vineyards, but cherries and grapes are tested for brix (sugar content) ensuring harvest at the optimum time. When it comes to drying cherries and making wine, both fruits must be sorted and destemmed quickly to preserve freshness. It seems only fitting that grapes and cherries grown in the Inland Northwest should pair in other ways.
For decades our Chukar team has offered handcrafted chocolate-covered cherries with unique flavors that can enhance wine and bring tasting experiences to a new level. Because chocolate and wine both contain tannins, there are a number of fabulous pairing options combining Chukar chocolate-covered cherries and Washington wine. Our team blends subtle notes of spice, vanilla and fruit into our artisan confections. Whether its dark chocolate Cabernet Cherries with, you guessed it, a local Cabernet, or a glass of Syrah with Chipotle Cherries, pairing options for Washington-made wine and Pacific Northwest cherries are abundant.
In celebration of National Wine Month, we honor the region that brought both cherries and wine grapes to increased popularity. Celebrate this day with a well-loved flavor combination or create your own. And if you have not visited, come, taste some wine, pair with some Chukar chocolate-covered cherries and see what Eastern Washington has to offer.
