Summers First Fruit—Cherries

In medieval times the center of every village was the town market where farmers sold their fruits, vegetables, meats, and wares. The annual opening of the market was announced by the cry “cherry-ripe! cherry-ripe! cherry-ripe!” through the streets—heralding the opening season of fresh fruits and vegetables.  

Northwest sweet cherries are the first fruit harvested in June, and for centuries they have marked the beginning of summer. In the world of cold storage and international shipping, most fruits are available fresh year ‘round yet cherries are rarely available unless frozen or ‘in season.’ With the first hint of summer the arrival of fresh cherries is a thrill to anticipate. When I close my eyes, I can still see our daughters in a cherry tree, mouths full of cherries, red juice dripping down their chins.