Introduction
Luxardo Maraschino Cherries boast a heritage spanning over two centuries, a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality, tradition, and the family’s profound passion for their craft. In this article, we explore the captivating story of Luxardo, the quintessential Italian distillery, and their iconic Maraschino Cherries.
From humble 19th-century origins to a post-World War II rebirth, Luxardo’s story is a captivating saga of perseverance, survival, and tradition. As you uncover the history behind each jar of Luxardo’s Maraschino Cherries, you’ll appreciate why these dark, syrupy, tart cherries stand out in the world of gourmet indulgence. So, buckle up, pour yourself a cocktail, and join us as we unfold the inspiring story of Luxardo.
Origins and Early History of Luxardo
In a quaint town named Zadar, once known as Zara in Croatia, a tale of cherries, passion, and entrepreneurial spirit began to unfold. In the early 19th century, Girolamo Luxardo, a diplomat from Genoa, was sent to Zara by the Kingdom of Sardinia. Alongside his wife, Maria Canevari, they opened a store, showcasing everything from intricate laces to fine metalwork. But it was Maria’s culinary adventures that would change their destiny.
Behind the closed doors of their home, Maria played with the local Marasca cherries, crafting a unique liqueur that danced with nutty flavours, thanks to the cherry pits. Girolamo, sensing the potential of this homemade delight, envisioned it gracing tables far and wide. With a dream and a refined recipe, Luxardo Distilling was born in 1821. Their Maraschino liqueur, a blend of cherry leaves, stems, pits, and skins, aged in Larch vats and distilled to perfection, became their signature. It wasn’t just cherry brandy; it was an experience, a taste of Zadar in a bottle.
By the 1840s, this little bottle from Zadar had travelled as far as California. Luxardo wasn’t just a brand; it was a legacy, a testament to a couple’s love for cherries and their dream to share it with the world. And so, the Luxardo story became a cherished chapter in the cocktail culture across the globe.
The Legacy and Success of Luxardo Pre-WWII
Innovative Expansions with Marasca Cherries
After the triumphant introduction of their Maraschino liqueur, Luxardo swiftly became a name synonymous with quality spirits and innovation. The distillery, always looking to harness the full potential of Marasca cherries, introduced a range of products that celebrated this unique ingredient. A standout among these was the Original Maraschino Cherries, a luxurious garnish that soon became a favourite in desserts and cocktails alike.
Global Acclaim and Expansion
Luxardo’s dedication to unparalleled quality didn’t go unnoticed. Bars and connoisseurs worldwide coveted their offerings, especially the Maraschino Originale liqueur and the Maraschino cherries. Their reputation for crafting spirits with distinct and unmatched flavours made them a global sensation.
A New Era Under Michaelangelo Luxardo
As the 19th century gave way to the 20th, Michaelangelo Luxardo, a third-generation family member, took the reins. Under his visionary leadership, Luxardo built a state-of-the-art facility at Zara’s harbour, consolidating its operations. This period also saw Zara’s transition into the Kingdom of Italy post World War I, a shift that brought cultural and societal changes, influencing Luxardo’s identity and approach.
Showcasing Italian Craftsmanship
Embracing these changes, Luxardo showcased the best of Italian craftsmanship, becoming one of Europe’s premier distilleries. Their portfolio expanded to include classics like Amaretto, Limoncello, Fernet, and Bitters, further cementing their status in the spirits industry.
Challenges on the Horizon: The Onset of World War II
Yet, as World War II loomed, challenges awaited the Luxardo family. Their story of perseverance and dedication during these trying times is a testament to their love for their craft and their determination to uphold their cherished legacy.
Surviving WWII and the Rebirth of Luxardo
The onset of World War II brought unimaginable hardship and devastation to Europe, and Luxardo faced its share of challenges. The city of Zara endured heavy bombings, and the Luxardo factory, once a thriving center of innovation and production, was razed to the ground. Tragically, many Luxardo family members disappeared under mysterious and violent circumstances, marking a dark chapter in the family’s history. The Luxardo cherry orchard suffered the same fate, almost leading to the loss of this precious cherry variety.
However, one family member survived the turmoil. Giorgio Luxardo, the sole surviving brother of his generation, escaped the besieged city and embarked on a perilous journey to Northern Italy’s Veneto region. His journey was fraught with danger, but he had one singular goal: to rebuild Luxardo from the ashes and honor his ancestors’ legacy.
Giorgio had few tangible assets to start anew, except for a Marasca sapling and the written recipe for Maraschino liqueur that he carried with him. The sapling was a stroke of luck; years earlier, a professor from the University of Florence had requested a sapling from the Luxardo orchards for study and had carefully preserved and nurtured it over the years.
With determination and patience, Giorgio reestablished Luxardo in Torreglia, Padua, in 1947. He chose this location for its distance from major cities, abundant water supply, and the ideal pH balance required for their unique liqueurs. However, he had to wait nearly a decade for the Marasca trees to bear fruit and for the Maraschino liqueur to mature. In the meantime, he crafted other spirits like Triple Sec and Gin, following the meticulously documented family recipes. His unwavering perseverance paid off, and Luxardo emerged from the ashes, stronger and more resilient than ever before.
The Modern Luxardo
Adapting to Modern Times
Since Luxardo’s revival, the distillery has adeptly adapted to the changing times while simultaneously preserving its brand heritage and innovating for modern tastes.
A Mid-Century Charm
Located in the picturesque town of Torreglia, Padua, the distillery radiates a mid-century charm. Here, its campus showcases cheerful mustard tones and vibrant ruby accents, showcasing its strength and vitality.
A Growing Family Legacy
The Luxardo family tree has expanded to include three active generations working side by side. Each member is deeply involved in the operation, preserving the legacy while infusing their unique perspectives into the brand. Franco Luxardo, the family patriarch, serves as the managing director, while export director Matteo Luxardo ensures Luxardo’s global presence. The younger generation, including Filippo and Nico Luxardo, plays crucial roles in securing the Luxardo legacy.
Under their stewardship, Luxardo has introduced an array of exciting new products. The Sour Cherry Gin, for example, marries the tartness of Marasca cherries with the botanical complexity of gin, creating a refreshing spin on a classic spirit. The distillery has also ventured into confectionery with exquisite liqueur-filled chocolates and fruit syrups, broadening its product lines.
Even with their global success and widespread recognition, Luxardo stays faithful to its modest beginnings. The iconic Maraschino liqueur and Maraschino cherries, which started their journey almost two centuries ago, still reign supreme in their product range, encapsulating the rich history and tradition of Luxardo. Available in over 90 countries worldwide, Luxardo cherries are known for their supreme quality and flavour, serving as the gold standard in cocktail garnishes. Luxardo still produces its products from one distillery, ensuring absolute quality control. Demand far exceeds supply, and customer who can get their hands on the products understand why.
The Luxardo family’s tenacity, passion, and unwavering commitment to quality have not only allowed Luxardo to survive but also to thrive, carrying its legacy well into the 21st century. Their commitment to excellence has guaranteed the brand’s long-lasting success, even when faced with challenges. Moreover, Luxardo’s dedication to preserving tradition while embracing innovation has made it a timeless symbol of Italian craftsmanship.
The Luxardo Cherries: A Class Apart
The Luxardo cherry, with all its dark, decadent glory, crowns the Luxardo legacy. This small yet significant detail is where the humble cherry transforms into an experience of unparalleled sophistication. The Luxardo cherries, preserved in their signature Maraschino liqueur, don’t merely serve as a garnish; they celebrate flavor and testify to the Luxardo family’s commitment to quality. So, what makes Luxardo cherries so special? Let’s find out!
Colour: A Deep Dive into Elegance
The Luxardo cherry stands out with its deep-purple, almost black hue, a stark departure from the neon-red maraschino cherries of old. This rich colour is a product of the Marasca cherry syrup they’re immersed in, setting the stage for a sensory experience.
Aroma: A Whiff of Sophistication
Before even taking a bite, the Luxardo cherry entices with its subtle aroma, hinting at the depth of flavours it encapsulates. It’s a promise of the quality and legacy of the Luxardo brand.
Taste: A Symphony of Flavours
Each Luxardo cherry delivers a harmonious blend of tart, sweet, and a touch of almond bitterness. This nuanced, fruit-forward flavour profile is what sets them leagues apart from typical maraschino cherries. Whether enhancing classic cocktails like Bianco Negronis <recipe link>, Manhattans <recipe link>, Last Words <recipe link>, or Aviations <recipe link>, they bring a balance, reducing the spirits’ bite and adding harmony.
Texture: Luxuriously Luscious
Beyond taste, the texture of Luxardo cherries is unparalleled. Preserved in thick syrup, they offer a succulent bite that’s both firm and yielding, making them a joy to savour.
Versatility: From Cocktails to Desserts
While they’re a hallmark of premium cocktails, Luxardo cherries aren’t limited to the drink glass. Their rich flavour and luxurious texture elevate desserts, from ice cream sundaes to cheesecakes and festive treats, turning the ordinary into extraordinary.
Are Luxardo cherries worth the price?
Although Luxardo cherries come with a higher price tag than regular maraschino cherries, they are indeed worth every penny. They carry with them the Luxardo family’s tradition, quality, and unparalleled taste experience, transforming every sip and bite into a moment of indulgence. In high-end establishments and Michelin-starred bars worldwide, the Luxardo cherry is not just a garnish—it’s a sign of luxury and attention to detail that discerning patrons appreciate and expect.
Conclusion
Reflecting on the Luxardo saga, it’s clear that this iconic company’s success is rooted in its unwavering commitment to preserving family traditions and delivering excellence in every product. Luxardo has navigated through centuries, endured World War II, and still emerged stronger, maintaining its unique offering, and expanding its legacy to all corners of the world. Their story is a testament to resilience, patience, and an enduring love for the craft.
The best way to truly appreciate Luxardo is to experience their products firsthand. Luxardo cherries, with their depth of flavour and luxurious texture, redefine the cherry garnish, taking cocktails and desserts from ordinary to extraordinary. The Iconic Maraschino liqueur, among other Luxardo spirits, creates a foundation for countless classic cocktails, a testament to the brand’s lasting influence in the global spirits industry.
We invite you to delve into the world of Luxardo, try their range of exquisite liqueurs, and savour the unmistakable taste of Luxardo cherries. To get started, check out these cocktail recipes featuring Luxardo products. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast, a dessert lover, or simply someone who appreciates fine food and drink, Luxardo promises a remarkable journey of flavour, tradition, and time-honoured craftsmanship.