YAKIMA, WA - Something new is falling in the world of cherries. Brandt’s Fruit Trees announced it has been granted exclusive propagation rights in the United States for the KIR™ series of sweet cherries. The grower has also partnered with Stemilt Growers to test the cultivars under Washington State growing conditions, with an option to commercialize the selections in the U.S.

“In finding a partner such as Stemilt Growers, we are confident that the KIR series of cherries will soon find a home in the hearts of consumers looking to enjoy first-class Pacific Northwest cherries throughout the summer months," said Kevin Brandt, Vice President of Brandt’s Fruit Trees.

The overarching brand name, KIR, is for a collection of 13 cherry selections developed from open pollinations of the Sweetheart variety, hailing from Kettig, Germany and grown by Mr. Hilmar Gräb.

Gräb, along with his son and daughter, focused on desirable characteristics for the cherry breeding program, such as larger size, firmness, flavor, and an ultra-late ripening window, a release stated.

Three of the more advanced selections have already been branded by the owner, under the trade names KIR Rosso®, Kir Lamour®, and KIR Vulcano®.

“Stemilt is excited to test the KIR series at our high altitude locations and we look forward to bringing these high-quality selections into the A Half Mile Closer to the Moon® cherry portfolio in time,” said West Mathison, Stemilt's President.

Now shoppers can look forward to more perfectly cultivated cherries in their future!