Top Sour Cherry Producing Countries

Sour cherry (Prunus cerasus), prized for its tart flavor and use in pies, preserves, and liqueurs, has a rich agricultural history dating back to ancient times. Originating in the region between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, sour cherries were cultivated by the Greeks and Romans, who spread the fruit throughout Europe. Over centuries, selective breeding improved the fruit’s quality and adaptability, leading to widespread cultivation across temperate regions. Today, the top producers of sour cherries are Turkey, Russia, Ukraine, Poland, and Serbia. Turkey leads global production, benefiting from favorable climate and established orchards, while Eastern European countries like Poland and Serbia have long traditions of sour cherry farming, supporting both domestic consumption and export. The United States, particularly Michigan, is also a significant producer, with sour cherry farming introduced by European settlers and flourishing in the Great Lakes region.

Data from United Nations FAO Stat