Balaton Tart Cherries

We have a wonderful crop of Balaton tart cherries this year. Balaton cherries are a darker morello-style variety of sour cherry traditionally grown  in Hungary, near the Soviet border. The Balaton was introduced here in the U.S. by Dr. Amy Iezzoni of Michigan State University, who found it in Hungary when she was searching for new genetic resources for her tart cherry breeding program.

Balaton cherries are a bit sweeter than Montmorency tart cherries (classic sour or pie cherries). They are also firmer, with darker flesh and juice. Many bakers like Balatons for their rich ‘sweet-tart’ flavor, and because they maintain their shape during cooking. They’re also great for traditional Hungarian Sour Cherry Soup (Meggyleves), Cherry Jam, and if you dare, home-made Morello Cherry Liquor, also known as Wisniowka or Vishnovka.

We have Balaton cherries for sale in both markets by the quart, in lugs or pitted in 10 pound bags. Because they’re less perishable than Montmorency tart cherries, they are also the one variety of sour cherry we can ship fresh. Give us a call toll-free at 877-937-5464 if you’d like a large order or wish to be notified when they start shipping.

Once  cherry season is over, we’ll have IQF (individually quick frozen) Balaton cherries for sale in our stores, and for shipping during the winter months.