Bye-bye PNW gloom, and hello sunshine! Those glorious 70-degree days are finally here, and that means it’s cherry time!
Sweet, juicy, and tangy—you’ll be hard-pressed to find a fruit that embodies the warm, carefree essence of summertime quite like a cherry. They dazzle as the main character in desserts like pies, tarts, and ice cream. Fresh cherries make a healthy, on-the-go snack for adventurous weekends hiking on the trails (fun fact: they’re classified as a superfood, so fuel up!). And for those who like to experiment in the kitchen, you could even try adding cherries to savory creations like cheesy appetizers or smoky salsas to impress company at summertime get-togethers.
Cherries are just as delicious as they are versatile. But what makes Washington-grown cherries so special? And with so many types to choose from, how do you know which kind of cherry is right for you? Let’s bite into the cherry pit and find out!
the champion cherries of Washington
In the Washington produce world, cherries are kind of a big deal. Out of all 50 states, we take the lead as the top producer of sweet cherries. Growing cherries is no walk in the park, but luckily, Washington provides the ideal climate for the temperamental cherry tree. Our cold, long winters allow the trees to break dormancy and start producing fruit, while the quick, warm summers align perfectly with the short cherry harvesting season, which typically runs from June through August.
Thanks to these ideal environmental conditions, Washington cherries are prized for their impressive size and superior taste. This summer, make your way out to Wenatchee or Yakima Valley—Washington’s premier sweet cherry growing regions—for some u-pick cherry fun on the farm!
choosing your cherry
When you’re shopping for fresh cherries in the produce department, go for the biggest ones you can find—size is a key indicator of quality. On the farm, cherries are measured by “rows” to determine which ones are worth packaging. A first-rate cherry is an “8-row” cherry—the biggest there is. These tend to be firmer and juicier than smaller “14-row” cherries. That’s why at Metropolitan Market, we aim to provide cherries that are at least a 9.5-row or larger. And since the size of the pit always remains the same, you’ll get way more fruit with the heftiest of the bunch. (Seriously, who doesn’t want more divine deliciousness?)
rainier cherries
Hands down, the most iconic Washington sweet cherry is the delicious Rainier. Just like its namesake mountain, this unique cherry rightfully stands apart from the rest. The Rainier cherry stuns with its two-toned yellow and blush hue, a fitting reflection of its light, creamy texture. The Rainier is somewhat of a delicacy in the cherry world, tasting a bit sweeter than the typical sweet cherry. Just one bite, and you’ll understand why the Rainier deserves all the hype!
Try tossing Rainier cherries into your summer salads or appetizers for a luscious burst of flavor. They pair beautifully with the silkiness of burrata or ricotta cheese.
red sweet cherries
Red sweet cherries are a broad group that includes several varieties—most notably the classic Bing, the most popular cherry in North America. As the fruit ripens, their mesmerizing mahogany color grows even deeper. A good rule of thumb to remember with red sweet cherries: the darker the color, the sweeter the taste!
Red cherries have a mellower flavor than Rainiers, with a slightly tangy finish. They’re a solid go-to choice for all sorts of cherry recipes—or simply enjoy them fresh off the stem for a healthy snack.
tart cherries
Tart cherries signal a sharp departure from the sweet varieties. Their bright ruby-red exterior hints at the sour punch hidden inside—you’ve been warned, bite with caution!
While tart cherries comprise a smaller chunk of the Washington cherry market, they’re highly valued for their versatility in the kitchen. You’ll find that they work wonderfully in juices and baked goods. At Metropolitan Market, we carry tart cherry varieties throughout the season. This year, be on the lookout for Balatons and designated pie cherries—perfect for your culinary creations.
If baking isn’t your jam, head over to our bakery and treat yourself to a whole Tart Cherry Pie made by Whidbey Pies—also available by the slice. Top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sublimely decadent dessert!
keep calm and cherry on
We hope you’re feeling inspired to incorporate more cherries into your diet this summer.
You can shop our full selection of cherries from the comfort of your home.