Sweet cherries have been enjoyed since ancient times, in fact, archeologists have found cherry pits in several Stone Age caves in Europe. They were first cultivated in present day Turkey, and were brought to America by settlers in the early 1600's.

Today, Washington state is the largest domestic producing area followed by Oregon, Idaho and California. California begins harvesting in early May and the harvesting moves north until finishing in Washington in August.

Imported cherries arrive in the winter, primarily from Chile. The primary sweet cherry varieties are Bing, Brooks, Tulare, Lambert, Rainier, and Lapin. Rainier cherries are white cherries with a red blush, these are often the sweetest cherries. Rainiers are very delicate, handle them with care.

The Lapin is a favorite of ours, it is a very large and dark red cherry that is usually available in late July from Washington state.

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