Tart cherries, also known as sour cherries, are smaller, tangy cherries with a vibrant red color. They have a pleasantly tart flavor that balances sweetness and acidity. Often used in cooking and baking, they add a lively element to dishes like pies, jams, and sauces. Tart cherries are also valued for their potential health benefits and are rich in antioxidants.It’s cherry season! Related to other stone fruit like peaches and plums, these sweet treats have a long history. Archaeologists have discovered fossilized cherry pits in prehistoric caves throughout Europe and Asia and cherries are mentioned in ancient Greek writings. While the majority of cherries in the US come from the West Coast, these come from Hepworth's partner farm, Overlook Farms, in upstate New York! Just remember to spit out the pit--maybe you’ll make it as far as the world record: 100 feet! Bake a cherry clafoutis; simmer into a jam to accompany cheese; eat out of hand.

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Scholl OrchardsScholl Orchards

Bethlehem, PA

George Scholl’s great uncle and aunt, Harry and Mary Nonnemaker, planted the first fruit trees in the 1930s on their Bethlehem property. George’s parents, Reginald and June Scholl, took an interest in agriculture and decided to expand, planting the main apple orchard in 1948. In 1968, George and his future wife, Faith, took over the responsibility of running the orchard in Bethlehem, and the farm market on Center Street. A second farm in Kempton, PA was purchased in 1982.

Scholl Orchards remains a fourth-generation family business run by the Scholl family. Jake and Ben Scholl maintain the fruit orchards and vegetable fields. Fruit is picked daily, when nature dictates. A special blend of apples is pressed into cider in the fall and winter months.

The Scholls are continuously improving the quality of their produce and expanding their reach. You can find them at the Easton Farmers’ Market, and in various restaurants and institutions (Bolete, Meals on Wheels, Lafayette College, Lehigh University) throughout the Lehigh Valley.