HOOD RIVER, OR - Brad Fowler, Hood River Cherry Company Co-Owner, offers AndNowUKnow a glimpse into the process of picking and shipping the perfect cherry.
For optimal ripeness, Hood River waits to pick until its cherries reach the perfect black color. The company won't begin the harvest until they reach 21-24% sugar content, right on the edge of maturity. Then, the cherries have to be cooled immediately in 34-degree water to preserve freshness.
All Hood River cherries are picked by hand, sorted by hand and the clusters are left together.
Check out the video at the top of the page to see this exclusive behind the scenes look!
