New cherry bounce drink unveiled by West Overton Distilling
West Overton Village and Museum in Westmoreland County is releasing a new cherry cordial in celebration of America’s 250th, releasing this July.
Made with rye whiskey, cherries, and baking spices, West Overton Distilling’s cherry bounce draws inspiration from West Overton’s history. From the early 1800s until Prohibition in 1920, West Overton was the site of a prolific rye whiskey distillery. A ledger entry from July 1862 confirms cherry bounce was made on site. That month, Henry S. Overholt purchased cherries and whiskey “to make bounce.”
Cherry bounce was a popular cordial during the time of the American Revolution, one George Washington was known to have enjoyed and brought with him on travels to western Pennsylvania.
West Overton Village and Museum revived the tradition of whiskey distilling on site in 2020. The new Cherry Bounce blends early American history with West Overton’s history of rye whiskey distilling.
“We’re excited to bring back this historic cherry cordial that the Overholt family was making,” said Patrick Bochy, co-executive director and distillery manager. “It’s always exciting when you can do something for the first time since the 1800s. We hope visitors enjoy our interpretation of a cherry bounce.”
Cherry bounce will be exclusively available at the distillery at West Overton Village. The distillery is open Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
To learn more about West Overton Village, visit www.westovertonvillage.org