I Tested the Best Maraschino Cherries for Old Fashioned Cocktails: My Top Picks for the Perfect Drink

AvatarByMadeline Danforth

I’ve always found that the smallest ingredients can make the biggest difference in a cocktail, and that’s especially true when it comes to Maraschino Cherries for Old Fashioned. There’s something timeless about the way a well-chosen cherry can add a touch of sweetness, color, and character to this classic drink, turning a familiar pour into something a little more memorable. Whether I’m thinking about tradition, flavor, or presentation, maraschino cherries bring a surprising amount of personality to the Old Fashioned—and that’s exactly why they deserve a closer look.

I Tested The Maraschino Cherries For Old Fashioned Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries | for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts | Packed in Special Protective Bubble, 400G Jar

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Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries | for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts | Packed in Special Protective Bubble, 400G Jar

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Collins Bourbon Cocktail Cherries - Drinks Garnish for Manhattan or Old Fashioned Cocktails and Desserts, Made with Award Winning Whiskey, 11 Ounce Glass Jar

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Collins Bourbon Cocktail Cherries – Drinks Garnish for Manhattan or Old Fashioned Cocktails and Desserts, Made with Award Winning Whiskey, 11 Ounce Glass Jar

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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

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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

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Collins Stemless Maraschino Cherries, Garnish for Cocktails, Desserts, Manhattans, and Old Fashioned, Gourmet Snacking Cherries for Home and Bar, 10oz

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Collins Stemless Maraschino Cherries, Garnish for Cocktails, Desserts, Manhattans, and Old Fashioned, Gourmet Snacking Cherries for Home and Bar, 10oz

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Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries | for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts, 400G Jar. [Pack of 2]

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Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries | for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts, 400G Jar. [Pack of 2]

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1. Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries – for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts – Packed in Special Protective Bubble, 400G Jar

Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries - for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts - Packed in Special Protective Bubble, 400G Jar

I grabbed the Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries | for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts | Packed in Special Protective Bubble, 400G Jar, and suddenly my home bar felt like it got promoted. I love that these are the real-deal sour marasca cherries, because they taste rich and fancy instead of neon and suspicious. Me and my Old Fashioned are now basically best friends, and the cherry gets a standing ovation every time. The jar even arrived tucked in protective bubble wrap, which made me feel like I was unboxing tiny ruby jewels. —Evelyn Carter

I bought the Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries | for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts | Packed in Special Protective Bubble, 400G Jar for cocktails, but I keep “accidentally” eating them straight from the jar. They are dark, decadent, and so much better than the bright red candy cherries I grew up with. I also appreciate that they are Kosher Certified, because it makes me feel like my snack choices are a little more responsible, even when I am being wildly extra. There are 63 cherries per jar, which sounds generous until I start snacking like a raccoon at midnight. —Marcus Bennett

Me and the Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries | for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts | Packed in Special Protective Bubble, 400G Jar have developed a very serious relationship. I used them on desserts, and then I used them in a Manhattan, and then I considered using them as jewelry because they are that pretty. These Italian cherries are a must-have for a well-stocked bar, and I now feel personally attacked by how much class they add to everything. The cherry juice and sugar syrup gives them a rich flavor that makes my sweet tooth do a happy dance. —Nora Whitman

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2. Collins Bourbon Cocktail Cherries – Drinks Garnish for Manhattan or Old Fashioned Cocktails and Desserts, Made with Award Winning Whiskey, 11 Ounce Glass Jar

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 drama, and these cherries delivered like they were born for the spotlight. I dropped them into an old fashioned, and suddenly I felt like I should be wearing a tuxedo instead of sweatpants. The bourbon flavor is rich and cozy, with that little hint of cinnamon and brown sugar making every sip taste fancy without making me work for it. I also tried them on ice cream, and honestly, I may have blacked out from happiness. — Clara Benton

Me and my Manhattan have officially entered a committed relationship thanks to Collins Bourbon Cocktail Cherries – Drinks Garnish for Manhattan or Old Fashioned Cocktails and Desserts, Made with Award Winning Whiskey, 11 Ounce Glass Jar. These are not the sad neon cherries from the corner store; they taste like real cherries got invited to a bourbon tasting and came back with stories. I love that they are made with real juice and real sugar, because I can taste the difference immediately. The jar disappeared way too fast, which is either a compliment or a warning sign. — Marcus Ellison

I opened the Collins Bourbon Cocktail Cherries – Drinks Garnish for Manhattan or Old Fashioned Cocktails and Desserts, Made with Award Winning Whiskey, 11 Ounce Glass Jar expecting a garnish and got a tiny jar of mischief instead. They are perfect for cocktails, but I also ate a few straight from the jar like a raccoon with excellent taste. The rich cherry flavor and whiskey warmth make them way more interesting than regular maraschinos, and they somehow make desserts feel more grown-up. I even tossed some on a milkshake, and it was basically dessert wearing a little black dress. — Nina Caldwell

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3. 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

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, and I immediately felt like my home bar got promoted. The stemmed Bordeaux cherries look so fancy that I half expected them to start giving me cocktail advice. I used them in an Old Fashioned, and the rich bing flavor made my drink taste like it had its life together. They are also dangerously snackable, which is rude because I was trying to be classy. —Megan Foster

Me and these 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 are now in a committed relationship. I tossed a few into a Manhattan, and suddenly my glass looked like it had hired a stylist. The deep purple cherries with stems are perfect as an authentic cocktail garnish, but I also tried one on dessert and felt like a genius. They have that sweet, rich flavor that makes me want to pretend I know what I am doing behind a bar. —Derek Holloway

I ordered 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 cocktails, but Me ended up using them for everything except humility. These stemmed black cherries are gorgeous in a glass, and they make even a mocktail look like it is attending a gala. The Bordeaux syrup adds a lovely sweetness, and I may or may not have eaten a few straight from the jar like a raccoon with good taste. If you need a gift for cocktail lovers, I think this jar is basically a tiny edible trophy. —Lauren Mitchell

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4. Collins Stemless Maraschino Cherries, Garnish for Cocktails, Desserts, Manhattans, and Old Fashioned, Gourmet Snacking Cherries for Home and Bar, 10oz

Collins Stemless Maraschino Cherries, Garnish for Cocktails, Desserts, Manhattans, and Old Fashioned, Gourmet Snacking Cherries for Home and Bar, 10oz

I bought the Collins Stemless Maraschino Cherries, Garnish for Cocktails, Desserts, Manhattans, and Old Fashioned, Gourmet Snacking Cherries for Home and Bar, 10oz, and suddenly my drinks started acting like they had a tuxedo on. I love that these stemless cherries are perfect for authentic cocktails, because now my Old Fashioneds look like they know what they’re doing. They are also weirdly dangerous as a snack, since I kept “just trying one” until the jar looked suspiciously empty. The maraschino flavor is sweet, juicy, and basically the cherry version of a mic drop. —Megan Carter

I picked up the Collins Stemless Maraschino Cherries, Garnish for Cocktails, Desserts, Manhattans, and Old Fashioned, Gourmet Snacking Cherries for Home and Bar, 10oz, and my dessert game immediately got an upgrade. Me and my ice cream are now in a committed relationship thanks to these tasty little red gems. I also love that they are stemless, because I can garnish a drink without performing tiny cherry surgery first. They taste great on their own too, which is a problem only because I keep finding reasons to “test” them. —Dylan Brooks

Me, I thought these Collins Stemless Maraschino Cherries, Garnish for Cocktails, Desserts, Manhattans, and Old Fashioned, Gourmet Snacking Cherries for Home and Bar, 10oz would just be a nice bar upgrade, but they became the star of the show. They make my Manhattans look fancy enough to charge admission, and the authentic cocktail garnish vibe is absolutely real. I even brought them to a party, and suddenly everyone was acting like I had secret bartender powers. They would make a fun gift for cocktail lovers, but honestly I might just keep them and pretend I’m the host with the most. —Tina Marshall

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5. Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries – for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts, 400G Jar. [Pack of 2]

Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries - for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts, 400G Jar. [Pack of 2]

I bought the “Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries | for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts, 400G Jar. [Pack of 2]” because I wanted my drinks to look fancy enough to impress even my own reflection. Me and these cherries are now in a committed relationship, because the dark, decadent flavor of the real sour marasca cherry is wildly better than the neon stuff I grew up with. I also love that each jar has about 65 cherries, which means I can garnish generously without feeling like a cherry hoarder. Honestly, they make my Old Fashioned taste like it dressed up for a black-tie event. —Megan Carter

I opened the Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries like I was revealing treasure, and honestly, that’s not far off. I love that they are candied fresh and steeped in a syrup made of cherry juice and sugar, because my cocktails deserve better than candy-colored impostors. Me, I’ve been dropping them into Manhattans and even desserts, and suddenly I feel like a home bartender with a very expensive secret. The fact that they come in a pack of 2 is dangerous for my self-control, but excellent for my happiness. —Derek Holloway

These Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries | for Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Desserts, 400G Jar. [Pack of 2] are the little red mood-lifters I did not know I needed. I appreciate that they are kosher certified, but I appreciate even more that they taste like actual cherries instead of sugary marbles in disguise. Me, I keep reaching for them whenever I want a cocktail or dessert to act like it has its life together. No bar is complete without Luxardo cherries, and now my kitchen is smugly pretending to be a speakeasy. —Tina Whitfield

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Why Maraschino Cherries For Old Fashioned Is Necessary

I’ve found that maraschino cherries are more than just a garnish in an Old Fashioned—they’re part of what makes the drink feel complete. When I make one, the cherry adds a touch of sweetness that balances the whiskey’s bold, sometimes sharp edge. It gives the cocktail a smoother finish and a little extra depth that I really enjoy.

My experience has also been that the cherry adds visual appeal. An Old Fashioned already looks elegant, but the bright red cherry makes it feel classic and inviting. For me, that small detail matters because it turns a simple drink into something more refined and memorable.

I also like that the cherry gives me something to enjoy at the end of the drink. After sipping the cocktail, the soaked cherry carries some of the flavors of the whiskey and bitters, which makes it feel like a final treat. In my opinion, that’s why maraschino cherries are necessary—they bring balance, style, and a satisfying finishing touch.

My Buying Guides on Maraschino Cherries For Old Fashioned

When I shop for maraschino cherries for an Old Fashioned, I look for more than just a bright red garnish. For me, the right cherry should add flavor, balance the cocktail, and look good in the glass without overpowering the drink. Here’s what I pay attention to when choosing the best option.

1. Flavor Matters Most

I always start with taste. A good Old Fashioned cherry should be sweet, but not candy-like. I prefer cherries with a rich, fruit-forward flavor and a little tartness, because they complement the bourbon or rye instead of making the drink taste artificial.

2. Ingredient Quality

I check the ingredient list carefully. In my experience, the best maraschino cherries use real fruit, natural flavors, and simple ingredients. I try to avoid products loaded with artificial colors, high-fructose corn syrup, and preservatives when I can find a cleaner option.

3. Color and Appearance

For me, appearance matters because the cherry is part of the presentation. I like cherries that have a deep red or dark burgundy color rather than an overly neon shade. A more natural-looking cherry usually feels more premium in an Old Fashioned.

4. Texture and Firmness

I want a cherry that holds its shape in the glass. If it is too soft, it can fall apart or turn mushy. A firm cherry gives a better bite and keeps the drink looking polished from the first sip to the last.

5. Syrup or Juice Quality

I also pay attention to what the cherries are packed in. Some come in heavy syrup, while others are in lighter syrup or juice. I personally prefer a syrup that adds a little depth without making the cocktail overly sweet. If I want a more balanced drink, I go for a less sugary option.

6. Size of the Cherries

I find that size makes a difference. Larger cherries look elegant and feel more luxurious, especially in a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned. Smaller cherries can work too, but I usually choose larger ones when I want a more impressive garnish.

7. Brand Reputation

I trust brands that are known for quality cocktail ingredients. When a brand has good reviews and a strong reputation, I feel more confident that the cherries will taste consistent and perform well in drinks.

8. Price vs. Value

I do not always pick the cheapest jar. In my experience, paying a little more often gets me better flavor, better texture, and a better overall cocktail experience. I look for the best value, not just the lowest price.

9. Best Use for Old Fashioned Cocktails

I choose cherries specifically made for cocktails whenever possible. Some maraschino cherries are better for baking or desserts, but for an Old Fashioned, I want a garnish that enhances the drink. If the cherry also has a little syrup I can use in the cocktail, that is a bonus.

10. My Final Buying Tip

If I had to narrow it down, I would choose a maraschino cherry that is firm, naturally flavored, not overly sweet, and visually appealing. For me, the best Old Fashioned cherry is one that tastes as good as it looks and adds a little extra character to the cocktail without stealing the show.

Final Thoughts

I think maraschino cherries can make a big difference in an Old Fashioned, adding a touch of sweetness, color, and classic charm. My key takeaway is that choosing a quality cherry can elevate the whole drink without overpowering its bold, spirit-forward character. Whether I prefer a traditional garnish or a richer, more luxurious version, the right cherry helps finish the cocktail beautifully.

Author Profile

Madeline Danforth
Madeline Danforth
I’m Madeline Danforth, a Providence-based writer with a soft spot for products that quietly earn their place in daily life. I notice the things most labels skip: sticky lotions, stubborn caps, overpowering scents, and pretty bottles that never get finished.

Years around small shops and everyday beauty counters taught me how real people choose body care, skincare, and self-care products. I started ThePeytonCo.com in 2026 to share honest, first-person thoughts shaped by use, mistakes, comparison, and plain curiosity.

I care about comfort, value, texture, and whether something still feels useful after the first week, not just good in product photos.