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What Does Science Say About The Benefits of Drinking Tart Cherry Juice Daily?

What Does Research Say About Tart Cherry Juice?

A Culinary & Agricultural Look at America’s Favorite Ruby-Red Fruit

Published: September 2019 | Updated: November 2025

Tart cherry and science

Montmorency tart cherries have captured the attention of chefs, home cooks, fruit lovers, and researchers alike — not for medical promises, but for their deep color, bold flavor, and naturally occurring fruit compounds that make them stand out in the culinary world.

This article shares what makes tart cherry juice unique — from fruit composition to historical relevance.

 

At-a-Glance

  • Montmorency tart cherries are known for their bright, tangy flavor and vibrant red pigments.

  • Many people enjoy tart cherry juice as part of a fruit-forward lifestyle.

  • Research often examines fruit composition, plant compounds, and natural pigment levels in cherries.

  • Michigan grows over 60% of the nation’s Montmorency tart cherries, making it a key region for this iconic fruit.

Why Tart Cherry Juice Captures So Much Interest

Concentrated Cherry Juice has long been appreciated for its distinctive taste, deep red color, and strong connection to Michigan’s fruit-growing heritage. Many people enjoy adding it to:

  • Smoothies

  • Mocktails

  • Marinades

  • Baking recipes

  • Spritzers and sparkling drinks

Curiosity about this fruit has naturally inspired researchers over the years to analyze fruit composition, pigments, and naturally occurring plant compounds.

1. A Look at Fruit Composition

Montmorency tart cherries contain a variety of fruit-based compounds commonly found in colorful produce. These compounds help contribute to:

  • The cherry’s bold red hue

  • Its naturally tart flavor

  • Its popularity in pies, sauces, and beverages

Researchers often measure components like polyphenols and anthocyanins to better understand why certain fruits have more intense color or flavor than others.

2. Tart vs. Sweet Cherries

There are two primary cherry categories:

Tart Cherries (Prunus cerasus L.)

  • Bright, tangy flavor

  • Commonly used in pies, baked goods, concentrates, and culinary beverages

  • Naturally lower in sugar

  • Most research on fruit composition focuses on the Montmorency variety

Sweet Cherries (Prunus avium L.)

  • Typically eaten fresh

  • Higher natural sugar content

  • Popular in summertime snacking

Both offer unique culinary experiences, but Montmorency tart cherries are especially valued for cooking and juice production. Read about the difference between tart and sweet cherries

3. What Research Typically Examines

Academic studies on cherries generally explore agricultural, nutritional, and botanical topics, such as:

  • Fruit color intensity

  • Pigment concentration

  • Polyphenol levels

  • Natural variation between cherry varieties

  • How different processing methods affect taste and color

These studies provide insight into why tart cherries look and taste the way they do, not about disease, treatment, or medical outcomes.

4. The Michigan Connection

Northern Michigan is one of the world’s most iconic tart cherry-growing regions. The area’s cool climate, glacial soil, and proximity to Lake Michigan create ideal conditions for producing consistently flavorful fruit.

Traverse Bay Farms sources as much fruit as possible from this region, known for:

  • Bright, picturesque orchards

  • Annual cherry festivals

  • Generations of local growers

  • A long-standing tradition of cherry production and innovation

5. The Culinary Role of Tart Cherry Juice

Tart cherry juice concentrate is a versatile kitchen staple. Home cooks often use it to:

  • Add depth to sauces

  • Create naturally red toppings for desserts

  • Mix into sparkling water

  • Balance sweetness in cocktails and mocktails

  • Boost flavor in marinades or vinaigrettes

A standard preparation uses a 1 oz concentrate to 7 oz water ratio for a traditional glass.

6. Testimonials 

"The flavor is bold and clean — easily the best tart cherry juice I’ve tried."
— Bethany P., Portland, OR

"We use the concentrate to create cherry glazes for grilled chicken. Amazing depth of flavor."
— Mark L., Austin, TX

"The dried cherries are incredible in muffins and trail mixes. Fresh, vibrant, and full of color."
— Evelyn R., Philadelphia, PA

Explore What’s Next

Discover the bright, authentic flavor of Montmorency cherries in tart cherry juice concentrate, dried cherries, cherry powders, and more at Traverse Bay Farms.

FAQ

Q: What type of cherries are used to make tart cherry juice concentrate?
A: Most concentrate is made from Montmorency tart cherries, celebrated for their bold flavor and vibrant color.

Q: How do I prepare tart cherry juice from concentrate?
A: Mix one ounce of concentrate with seven ounces of water for a traditional glass.

Q: Can tart cherry juice be used in cooking?
A: Yes. It is popular in sauces, desserts, marinades, spritzers, and vinaigrettes.

Q: Why is tart cherry juice so red?
A: Tart cherries naturally contain red plant pigments called anthocyanins, which contribute to their rich color.

Q: Where are Montmorency cherries grown?
A: Northern Michigan is one of the largest producers of Montmorency tart cherries in the United States.

Check out just these great tasting cherry products made with Montmorency, Michigan cherries offered by Traverse Bay Farms:

Make sure to check out our website to see all of the Montmorency, Michigan cherry products we offer. Learn how to buy 100% pure tart cherry juice.

Check out this great video on the Northern Michigan cherry harvest

So the next time you are looking to enjoy great taste combined with natural health benefits reach for some Michigan cherries or a glass of Montmorency tart cherry juice.