Savory Cherry Sauce with Red Wine – The Perfect Pairing for Duck, Lamb or Cheese

Eliane Muskus
Jun 7
2 min read

This luscious cherry and wine sauce is a seasonal showstopper—elegant, unexpected, and ready in under 30 minutes.

Think cherries are just for pies and sweet desserts? Think again. When paired with red wine, a touch of balsamic, and warm spices, cherries become the star of an elegant, savory sauce that’s perfect with duck, lamb, or even a wedge of aged cheese. This isn’t your typical cherry recipe—it’s sophisticated, bold, and surprisingly simple.

Cherries are in season and absolutely everywhere right now. Glossy, plump, and bursting with flavor, they’re one of summer’s most vibrant fruits. While we all love a good cherry clafoutis or homemade jam, this year, I invite you to take cherries into unexpected territory—the savory kitchen.

This homemade cherry and red wine sauce is inspired by classic French cuisine but adapted for busy home cooks. It’s deep, velvety, and full of flavor—ideal for spooning over seared duck breast, roasted pork tenderloin, or grilled lamb. And if you’re creating a charcuterie or cheese board? This sauce also shines as a sweet-savory accent with blue cheese or aged goat cheese.

Fresh Seasonal Cherries for Cherry and Red Wine Sauce

Cherry & Red Wine Sauce Recipe

Serves: 4

🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes

⏱️ Cook Time: 15–20 minutes

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small shallot, finely chopped
1/2 cup dry red wine (Merlot, Pinot Noir, or Syrah work well)
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or a small rosemary sprig)
Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper

📌 Optional: 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water for thicker sauce

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil and gently sauté the shallots until soft (about 2 minutes).

2. Add the cherries and cook for 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften.

3. Pour in the wine and balsamic vinegar, add honey, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

4. Let it simmer gently over medium-low heat for 12–15 minutes until the sauce reduces slightly.

5. (Optional) Stir in the cornstarch slurry if you'd like a thicker, glossy finish.

6. Taste, adjust seasoning, and remove from heat.

Serve warm over roasted duck, grilled lamb, or paired with cheese boards featuring bold flavors like blue cheese, aged goat cheese, or even Manchego.

📌 Other Cherry-Inspired Ideas You’ll Love:

Cherry Caprese Salad: Swap tomatoes for cherries, pair with burrata and basil
Cherry, Feta & Mint Couscous: A brilliant side for summer dinner parties
Chilled Cherry Gazpacho: Refreshing, elegant, and unexpected
Cherry Compote with Vanilla & Orange Zest: Serve over yogurt, pancakes, or brioche toast