You know that summer has arrived once fresh Australian cherries are in the shops! Available from November to February, cherries are a key part of the quintessential Australian summer experience. Whether being enjoyed at a picnic lunch, sunny barbecue or Christmas feast, sweet juicy cherries are a popular choice with the whole family. They’re also a convenient, healthy and tasty snack, perfect for lunchboxes and after school treats.
A member of the Rosacea (rose) family, cherries are a small, plump stone fruit. They have been cultivated in southern Australia since the late 19th Century when they were introduced to the New South Wales town of Young, now known as the cherry capital of Australia. Many varieties are available, however sweet cherries are especially favoured. They are a versatile fruit and while they are most popular eaten fresh, they are also ideal for use in recipes such as jams, sauces, cakes and tarts.
Cherries are a guaranteed crowd pleaser, well loved both for their delicious flavour and beautiful appearance. With their ruby‐red, shiny skin, cherries are tailor made for a festive Christmas celebration. They are also stunning addition to any summer fruit platter and they look lovely when simply placed in a bowl, stems attached, ready to be enjoyed.
Explore this site to learn more about cherries, enjoy our selection of recipes and enter the competition for your chance to win a cherry red iPod nano or a box of delicious Australian cherries!