10 Fun Facts About Cherries

Cherries have been part of celebrations, summer traditions, and family moments for generations - and we love growing them just as much as you love eating them! To celebrate our season, here are 10 fun (and surprising!) facts about cherries.

1. Cherries have been enjoyed for over 2,000 years

Cherries are one of the world’s oldest cultivated fruits, first grown in ancient Greece and Rome. We’re proud to continue that long legacy here in the Yarra Valley.

2. There are more than 1,000 varieties of cherries worldwide

While you won’t see all 1,000 in Australia, at our orchard alone we grow over 35 different varieties, spanning early, mid, and late-season harvests. Each one has its own flavour, colour and character!

3. Cherries get their colour from powerful antioxidants

That deep ruby-red hue comes from anthocyanins, natural antioxidants linked to reducing inflammation and supporting heart health.

4. Size does matter - bigger cherries are usually sweeter

Larger cherries typically have a higher sugar content and a more intense flavour. It’s one of the reasons we have strict size and quality standards for our premium cherries.

5. Cherries must be picked by hand

There’s no machine that can pick cherries gently enough - so every cherry you enjoy has been hand-picked, one by one, by our team early each morning.

6. Cherries love cool weather - but not too much rain

Cherries thrive in cool climates (like ours in Seville) but can be very sensitive to heavy rain close to harvest, which can cause cracking. It’s why every good season feels like a victory!

7. A freshly picked cherry contains about 80% water

This is why rapid hydro-cooling and cold storage (around 3°C) are essential - they keep the fruit crisp, juicy, and fresh all the way from our orchard to your home.

8. Cherries don’t ripen once picked

Unlike some fruits, cherries won’t get sweeter after harvest. They must be picked at the perfect moment - which is why timing is everything for our orchard team.

9. Australia produces some of the world’s best cherries

Our unique climate, strict quality standards, and careful farming practices make Australian cherries highly sought after both locally and internationally. And we’re proud to play our part.

10. Cherries are a festive favourite for good reason

They’re naturally sweet, beautifully vibrant, and reach their peak right in the lead-up to Christmas. It’s no wonder cherries have become a symbol of celebration, togetherness, and summer joy.