When you think of Turkey, your mind might wander to ancient ruins, bustling bazaars, or its legendary cuisine. But here’s something you might not know: Turkey is one of the largest producers of cherries (kiraz) in the world.
That’s right—this beautiful country, with its diverse climate and fertile lands, produces hundreds of thousands of tonnes of cherries every year. From the vibrant markets of Istanbul to the sprawling orchards of Afyon, cherries are not just a seasonal treat—they’re a national treasure.
A Fruitful Legacy
Turkey’s love affair with cherries goes way back. In fact, the city of Giresun on the Black Sea coast is thought to be the birthplace of the cherry as we know it today. According to historical records, cherries from this region were first exported to Europe by the Romans over 2,000 years ago. The Latin name for cherry—Cerasus—is actually derived from the ancient name for Giresun.
A Global Powerhouse
Today, Turkey is consistently ranked among the top cherry-producing nations, often competing with the United States and Iran for the top spot. In 2023, Turkey produced over 700,000 tonnes of cherries, with much of the harvest exported to Europe, Russia, and the Middle East.
Popular cherry-growing regions include:
- Afyonkarahisar – Known for its rich, sweet cherries.
- Isparta – Famous not just for roses, but also high-quality fruit.
- Manisa – Home to cherry festivals and fertile orchards.
- Bursa – Where early cherry varieties flourish thanks to the microclimate.
Cherry Season in Turkey
Cherry season usually kicks off in late May and runs through July. During this time, local markets are bursting with fresh cherries—deep red, shiny, and full of flavour. Whether you prefer to snack on them straight from the punnet, bake them into a tart, or preserve them as jam, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy Turkey’s most tempting fruit.
Here’s a recipe for juicy sour cherry cake for those hot summer days
Sweet, sticky and slightly tart, here’s the recipe for Meliz Berg’s Sour Cherry Jam
Many towns even hold cherry festivals during peak season, celebrating the harvest with music, dancing, local food, and—of course—cherry-picking competitions.
More Than Just a Snack
Beyond their juicy deliciousness, cherries are a serious business in Turkey. The country exports fresh cherries to over 50 countries, with Germany, Russia, and the Netherlands among its biggest buyers. Turkish farmers and exporters are known for their focus on quality, freshness, and sustainable farming techniques, helping to maintain Turkey’s strong international reputation.
The Cherry on Top
So, next time you bite into a plump, juicy cherry, there’s a good chance it came from Turkey—where generations of growers have perfected the art of cultivating this beloved fruit.
Cherries may be small, but in Turkey, they represent a big story—one of heritage, pride, and a whole lot of flavour.
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