Cherry bounce is a traditional Southern beverage made by combining cherries, spices, and moonshine, a clear strong alcoholic beverage made illegally. The exact recipe for cherry bounce varies widely, but most typically begins by combining a number of ripe cherries, sugar, spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, and sometimes citrus peel or allspice, in a mason jar.
The jar is then filled with moonshine and allowed to age for several months, the longer it ages the stronger the flavor. The resulting beverage is a sweet, slightly tart and surprisingly smooth alcoholic drink that can be enjoyed as an aperitif or sipped neat.
Making cherry bounce is an art historically practiced by moonshiners, illegal distillers who make their own moonshine for personal use or sale. Some believe that only a true moonshiner can properly make cherry bounce, as there is more to the craft than measuring the right amount of ingredients and appropriately aging the beverage.
Many moonshiners have recipes that have been passed down through multiple generations of their family, creating a unique brew with their own special touches.
Where did cherry bounce originate?
Cherry bounce is a liqueur made with brandy, whiskey, or rum and a combination of sour and sweet cherries and spices. It dates back to the early days of the Virginia colony in the United States, where it was likely made using the surplus of cherries from homesteads throughout the region.
Due to the abundance of cherries in the area, many recipes from the era involve the fruit in some form. In this case, a combination of cherries, brandy or other spirits and spices were used to create the flavorful beverage.
Cherry bounce soon became popular throughout the American colony, and its recipe was spread by word-of-mouth. Eventually, recipes for cherry bounce were published in American cookbooks, with variations on the recipe becoming popular in other parts of the world.
Today it can be found in many recipes from the colonial era, and is particularly prominent in the Southern United States.
Why do they call it cherry bounce?
Cherry bounce is a traditional mixed alcoholic beverage that has been enjoyed in the United States since the colonial era. The name ‘cherry bounce’ is said to come from the colonial habit of giving out ‘bounce’ as a gift to important visitors.
This gift was usually a mixture of several liquors combined with a fruit syrup or Ginger Beer. In this case it is usually a mixture of cherry infused liqueur and brandy. During the colonial era it was often flavored with spices such as cloves and cinnamon due to the lack of availability of artificial flavors.
It is believed that the name ‘cherry bounce’ comes from the combination of words ‘bounce’ and ‘cherry’ – where ‘bounce’ comes from the custom of gifting ‘bounce’ and ‘cherry’ from the cherry flavoring of the drink.
What is Cherry Bounce made of?
Cherry Bounce is a traditional liqueur made from a mix of cherries and other fruits infused in brandy, along with spices and sugar, creating a delicious sweet and tart flavor. It can also be made with other spirits such as gin, bourbon and vodka, depending on the region and recipe used.
The cherries and other fruit are fermented and distilled, ending up with a high proof base, which is then sweetened with sugar and spiced with nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and other ingredients.
Finally, it is flavored with bitters, lemon juice and/or orange peel, depending on the recipe. Cherry Bounce is often served chilled or over ice. It is popular in many parts of the world and is a treasured holiday tradition in the United States, particularly the mid-Atlantic region.
What cocktail is North Carolina known for?
The most famous cocktail originating from North Carolina is the Southern Smash. This cocktail is composed of equal parts bourbon, peach liqueur, and lemon juice. This mix is served over a large piece of crushed ice, for a refreshing summertime treat.
The Southern Smash cocktail is the perfect beverage to enjoy on a warm day, as it’s sweet and fruity taste takes the edge off of hot summers in North Carolina. Southern Smash pairs well with a light-hearted entree of fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and slaw.
It’s also often served alongside a traditional North Carolina BBQ spread.
The origin of the Southern Smash is complicated and varies between sources, but one of the first mentions dates to World War II. Some say it was originally crafted by the GIs, while others contend that it was developed in nearby South Carolina.
No matter the origin, the Southern Smash has become an iconic cocktail of North Carolina. With its refreshing taste and historical roots, it’s the perfect addition to any party or gathering.
What is the most popular drink in North Carolina?
It is difficult to pinpoint the most popular drink in North Carolina as different regions of the state have their own favorite drinks. However, two of the most widely consumed drinks in the state are brewed beer and sweet tea.
In terms of beer, some popular North Carolina breweries serve up varieties such as German-style lagers and Kölsch, stouts, IPAs, ales, porters, and more. Pabst Blue Ribbon, Miller High Life, and Coors Light are also popular among North Carolinians.
Another widely consumed beverage in North Carolina is sweet tea. It is considered the quintessential Southern drink and is a staple at many meals and gatherings. This simple concoction of tea, sugar, and water is sometimes given a unique spin with the addition of lemon, mint, or other ingredients.
Whether enjoying a cold beer at a tailgate or a glass of sweet tea while relaxing on the porch, these drinks have become a beloved part of North Carolina culture.
What is Georgia’s signature cocktail?
Georgia’s signature cocktail is the Georgia Julep, created for the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta. It was popularized by a local chef and writer from Atlanta named Damon Lee Fowler, who worked with the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau to create the official drink.
The cocktail comprises vodka, fresh peach juice, some quantity of whiskey (bourbon or rye), and a garnish of freshly grated nutmeg. However, as the popularity of the drink has grown, variations have sprung up all over the state, with muddlers and shakers playing around with ingredients to make different versions.
The Georgia Julep has become a popular item on the menus of bars, restaurants, and private events throughout the state. It’s a great choice for sultry summer evenings, and its light, delicate flavor makes it a fitting accompaniment to fried chicken, barbecue, and other favorite southern dishes.
Of course, it’s also popularly enjoyed all on its own!.
Who won Master Distiller Tim or Richard?
Neither Tim or Richard won Master Distiller — those awards are given out by Whisky Magazine on an annual basis to honor distillers who have been influential in the whisky-making industry. The selection process is complex, and judges compare the distillers on many factors, such as their craftsmanship, innovation, industry leadership and commitment to excellence.
Each year, the judging panel picks a handful of distillers as finalists and then announces their choice in a public ceremony. The most recent winners of the 2018 Whisky Magazine Master Distiller Award were Simon Holt of Glendronach Distillery and Alan Winchester of The Macallan.
What proof is moonshine cherries?
Moonshine cherries, sometimes called maraschino cherries, are a type of preserved cherry or cherry-flavored product that have been subjected to a process of candying or preservation by pickling them in a brine solution containing sugar and food coloring.
The name is derived from the fact that the process of making them was often done in secret, or “by the light of the moon. “.
The candying process begins with the cherries being placed in a brine solution containing food grade sugar, citric acid, and potassium sorbate, which acts as a preservative. This mixture drives out the water that’s naturally found in the cherries, and the sugar helps to maintain their shape.
After that, the cherries are drained, submerged in a different liquid, usually containing food coloring, to give them their signature bright red hue, and then re-submerged in the brine solution for several weeks for preserving and flavoring.
Moonshine cherries can be used to garnish cocktails, ice-cream, and desserts, and are considered both a festive and delicious garnish option. They are still produced according to the traditional method, but also produced in a pasteurized version which eliminates the need for a lengthy fermentation and pickling process.
What is the alcohol percentage in moonshine cherries?
The alcohol percentage in moonshine cherries varies depending on the specific recipe and how it is made. Generally speaking, it is higher than that of other types of alcohol. Some recipes call for up to 70% or even 80% alcohol but most recipes aim for somewhere between 30% and 70%.
This is because higher concentrations of alcohol tend to be too strong, making them unpalatable. Many times, moonshine cherries are made by macerating fresh cherries in moonshine, which further dilutes the alcohol content and adds a sweetness to the finished product.
While the alcohol content can be anywhere between 30% and 70%, most recipes will call for around 50% as that gives the right balance of sweetness and potency.
How long do cherries in moonshine last?
Cherries in moonshine can last for approximately two years if properly stored in an air-tight container away from any light and humidity. When stored this way, the color and flavor of the cherries will be preserved.
Additionally, the alcohol will act as a preservative, ensuring that the cherries stay intact and safe to consume for up to two years. To extend the life of your cherries, it’s a good idea to freeze them after they have been placed in the moonshine.
This will help to limit the chance of expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature. If you plan to consume the cherries beyond the two-year mark, we recommend that you check their overall appearance and smell upon opening the container to ensure they are still safe to eat.
Do you need to refrigerate moonshine cherries?
No, you generally do not need to refrigerate moonshine cherries. If they come in a jar or container, they can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place that is out of direct sunlight. The sugars and preservatives used in the production of commercially available moonshine cherries make the product shelf-stable, allowing you to store them without refrigeration.
Of course, if you make your own moonshine cherries at home you may need to refrigerate them to keep them fresh. It is also important to note that there are different types of moonshine cherries, some of which may need to be refrigerated.
For example, products that are more prone to spoilage like muddled cherries that are made with fresh fruit, may need to be refrigerated to ensure peak freshness.
Does moonshine improve with age?
Yes, moonshine can improve with age. Due to its high alcohol content, moonshine can actually be aged much like whiskey or other spirits. Aging moonshine can mellow out its sharp flavor, as well as add subtle flavors of caramel or oak depending on how it is aged.
You can age moonshine in oak barrels like classic whiskey or you can simply store it in a bottle in your pantry. To age your moonshine, you should store it in a cool, dark place and be sure to keep it away from any sources of heat.
However, the longer the moonshine is aged, the less alcohol it will contain. So, it is important to remember that if you are aging moonshine for flavor, you need to open it and enjoy it after a certain amount of aging.
Overall, aging moonshine can take it from a somewhat harsh homemade hooch to a more sophisticated drink with added flavors.
Do cherries in alcohol need to be refrigerated?
It is not necessary to refrigerate cherries in alcohol, as alcohol acts as a preservative, but it is still recommended. Alcohol does not kill all bacteria, and so storing them in the refrigerator can help slow any spoilage that may occur, especially if the liquor doesn’t have a high enough alcohol level to protect them.
The refrigerator will also help to keep the cherries from becoming overly soft, which can occur due to the added sugar and moisture in the alcohol. If stored properly in a cool, dark environment for up to several months, cherries in alcohol should remain safe to eat.
When in doubt, inspect them for signs of spoilage, such as a sour smell or mold, before eating.
Should cocktail cherries be refrigerated?
Yes, cocktail cherries should be refrigerated after they are opened. They should be stored in an airtight container to keep them from spoiling. Additionally, they need to be kept in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and to prevent bacteria from growing on them that can cause food poisoning and other issues.
When stored correctly in the refrigerator, cocktail cherries can last for up to two weeks. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the cherries have been washed properly before using them as food or drink garnishes or as an ingredient in a dish.
Doing so will help keep them free of any potential contaminants.
How do you store Toschi cherries?
Toschi cherries should be stored at room temperature or in a slightly cooler place, such as a basement or pantry. The storage conditions for Toschi cherries are much like those for other types of cherries, so the key to finding the ideal place to store them is to look for somewhere that is dry, dark and cool.
If you store them in a refrigerator, make sure that it is set to a temperature no lower than 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
Be sure to check the cherries regularly for any signs of mold, spoilage, or other damage. If any of the cherries look damaged, it’s best to discard them. To extend the shelf life of the cherries, store them in an airtight container or bag.
This will also help keep the cherries fresh and tasty and keep them from drying out. Keep in mind that fresh cherries can turn juicy and sticky if they’re exposed to air, so it’s best to store them in an air-tight container.
