Maraschino is a clear liqueur made from marasca cherries (including pits/stems in traditional production), which creates a distinct almondy, floral, slightly funky cherry character. It’s not the same as “maraschino cherry syrup.”
In cocktails it’s used in small amounts because it’s intense: cherry blossom, bitter almond, and a perfumed sweetness. Compared with cherry liqueurs that taste like candy, maraschino tastes more botanical and dry-leaning.
Luxardo Maraschino
Luxardo Maraschino is mandatory. There is no substitute that works in cocktails—other cherry liqueurs taste completely different, like candy rather than botanical complexity. The distinctive almondy, floral, slightly funky character that defines classics like the Aviation, Hemingway Daiquiri, and Last Word comes specifically from Luxardo's production method using whole marasca cherries including pits. This is one bottle where brand isn't preference, it's requirement.
Nutrition and related data for maraschino liqueur and all recipes that make use of it are based on Luxardo Maraschino. Alternative products or manufacturer reformulations may produce different results. Always verify with current product labels.
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