Cheerwine Recipe

Make the simple cherry syrup

In a small saucepan, combine granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Stir in corn syrup, reduce heat to low and simmer 2 minutes more to slightly thicken. Remove from heat.

Add juices and extracts

While the syrup is still warm, whisk in the cherry juice, pomegranate concentrate, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully combined. Taste carefully — the mixture should be noticeably cherry-forward with a slight tartness.

Season and color

Stir in the citric acid to add bright acidity. If you want a deeper, cola-like mahogany color, stir in the caramel color a little at a time until desired shade is reached. Cool the syrup to room temperature (about 15–20 minutes).

Mix with carbonated water

Once the syrup is cooled, transfer to a large pitcher. Slowly add the carbonated water, pouring gently to preserve bubbles. Start by adding 1 cup carbonated water at a time and taste after each addition; the recipe proportions make a concentrated syrup to soda ratio of about 1 part syrup to 4 parts soda, but you can adjust to taste.

Chill

Refrigerate the assembled Cheerwine for at least 30 minutes to let flavors marry and for the soda to be well chilled. If you prefer immediate service, fill glasses with ice and pour over ice immediately (the ice will cool but slightly dilute the beverage).

Prepare glasses with ice (if using). Pour the Cheerwine into each glass, leaving a little headspace for garnish. Add 1 maraschino or fresh dark cherry and a small sprig of mint to each glass. Optionally float a lemon slice on the rim or in the drink for a bright contrast.