Here are some more fun facts:
- Named after a noble location: Montmorency cherries got their name from the Montmorency Valley in France, where they were first cultivated around the 17th century.
- America’s most popular tart cherry: They dominate the tart cherry market in the US, accounting for 95% of the production of sour cherries.
- Known as “pie cherries”: Their rich, tart flavor and clear juice make them a perfect fit for pies and preserves.
- Ripen early in the season: This makes them ideal for early summer recipes and preserves.
- Michigan is a major producer: The state of Michigan, known as the “Cherry Capital of the World,” grows about two-thirds of the US Montmorency tart cherries.
- Prized by nobility in 18th century Paris: The Montmorency Valley region cherries were highly valued at the end of the 18th century, with Paris receiving thousands of baskets of these cherries daily.
- Have some interesting health benefits: They are a good source of natural melatonin, which can help with sleep. They also contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may aid in muscle recovery and reduce inflammation.