George Washington's Cherry Bounce

Tavern History Tuesday: George Washington’s Cherry Bounce 

Step back in time and enjoy a sip of history with Cherry Bounce, a spiced, brandy-based cordial that was a favorite of George Washington and a hallmark of 18th-century American traditions. Here at 1710 Tavern, we’re thrilled to bring this historic drink to life, offering you a chance to savor the same flavors that once graced the table of America’s first president—with a special twist!

A Drink Fit for a President
Cherry Bounce wasn’t just another beverage; it was a staple in the Washington household and a personal favorite of George Washington himself. In September 1784, he famously packed a canteen of Cherry Bounce, along with Madeira and port wine, for a journey west across the Allegheny Mountains. Its rich, fruity, and spiced flavor made it the perfect companion for long travels and chilly evenings.

The drink’s origins can be traced to Mount Vernon, where cherry trees flourished. Each June, the cherries were harvested, preserved, and transformed into pies, candies, wines, and, of course, Cherry Bounce. According to Martha Washington’s surviving papers, the recipe involved juicing 20 pounds of ripe Morello cherries, mixing the juice with 10 quarts of French brandy, and sweetening it with sugar. Spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, along with crushed cherry pits, were added for depth of flavor. The mixture was then left to ferment and age, a process requiring patience but yielding a drink worth the wait.

Our Version
At 1710 Tavern, we’ve reimagined Cherry Bounce to stay true to its historic roots while incorporating locally sourced flavors. Our version is made with bourbon and rum from 8 Shires Colonial Distillery, creating a rich and authentic profile. The cherries are infused in this bourbon and rum mixture for 40 days, spending one week in the sun and the remaining time in the dark, just as tradition might suggest. This meticulous process allows the flavors to deepen, producing a drink that’s as close to Washington’s original as possible.

Experience History Today
Every sip of our Cherry Bounce is a tribute to the craftsmanship of 18th-century recipes and the enduring legacy of George Washington’s favorite cordial. Stop by and taste it for yourself—experience a drink that truly stands the test of time. Cheers to history!