On the coast at Zadar, where the Adriatic sun ripens the small, dark Marasca cherries into something both sweet and tart, cherry liqueur has been part of daily life for centuries. It is this fruit and this coastal town that come together in every bottle of Maraska Maraschino.
Expert's Description
Maraschino Maraska Cherry Liqueur is a Croatian cherry liqueur made from Marasca cherries grown around Zadar, bottled at 32%.
The Maraschino tradition in Zadar dates back to the 1500s, when the city was under Venetian rule and Dominican monks first distilled the local Marasca cherry into a sweet, aromatic liqueur. In 1759, Venetian merchant Francesco Drioli began proper industrial production in the city, and through the 1800s several respected houses followed the same path, including Luxardo.
After the Second World War, Zadar's historic distilleries were nationalised and merged into a single company under the name Maraska, founded in 1945. Production still takes place at one of the city's former distillery sites, and the house continues a local Maraschino tradition that stretches back several hundred years.
The Marasca cherry is known for its concentrated, slightly tart flavour, and it is this fruit that gives the liqueur its deep cherry character and has made it a classic in bars and kitchens around the world.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Ripe, dark cherry leads the way, with a touch of almond and a light floral undertone.
Palate
Full and sweet with a distinct cherry intensity, carried by a gentle tartness that keeps the liqueur fresh rather than cloying.
Finish
Long and aromatic, with a lingering hint of cherry stone and a light bittersweet close.
Specifications
Name: Maraschino Maraska Cherry Liqueur
Distillery: Maraska
Country: Croatia
Type: Croatian Cherry Liqueur
ABV: 32%
Size: 50 CL
EAN no.: 3850158404307
Serving suggestion: Enjoy chilled in a small glass as a digestif, or use it as an ingredient in cocktails and desserts and baking.
Flavour Profile
Cherry · Almond · Sweetness · Aromatic
Did You Know?
Maraska's current production takes place on the grounds of one of Zadar's old, historic distilleries, which became part of the company when the city's distilleries were merged after the Second World War.