Victorian cherry season has arrived

What can be eaten as a delicious snack on its own, adds flavour to many savoury or sweet recipes, and contains a multitude of health benefits? Cherries!

Cherry season is upon us. From now until mid-January (but peaking in December), everyone can celebrate the heart-shaped, ruby-red fruit. There are over 80 varieties of cherry, but the predominant ones found in Victoria are Merchant, Bing, Stella, Regina, Lapin, Sweet Georgia, Sweetheart and Van.

Alison Jones, President of The Victorian Cherry Association says, ‘Cherry farmers want Victorians to experience the incredible taste that comes from this rich, naturally sweet fruit this season’. As cherries do not continue to ripen once picked, snacking can begin immediately! They’re fairly low calorie, contain 40% of the recommended daily vitamin C and are packed full of antioxidants. In short, they are the perfect little snack. They are best stored loosely in the fridge in a bag or container and consumed within four days. For those wanting them to last longer, they can be frozen for up to six months once the stones have been removed.

For those hanging for a road trip after being cooped up for eight long months, why not hit up the Victorian Cherry Trail? Follow the trail to tour nine stunning cherry orchards where you can pick your very own cherries or choose to purchase farm fresh from the on-site shop. It’s a great day out for families, couples or friends and a fantastic way to support Victorian farms.

The businesses included in The Cherry Trail are:

• Big Fella Cherries
• Blue Hills Berries & Cherries
• Chappies
• Cherryhill Orchards
• Wandin Valley Farms
• Yarra Valley Cherries
• Koala Cherries
• Naturipe Fruits
• Red Hill Cherry Farm.

‘This year has been a challenging one for everyone and we have learned to appreciate the smaller things in life. Victorian Cherries are such a delight to eat, share with family and friends and really remind us that it is summer and the festive season.’

And let’s face it, is it really Christmas without a bowl of cherries garnishing the table? Ring in the summer and the holiday season with your favourite ruby fruit.