California Cherries Although cherries originated in the Middle East and have been cultivated for centuries in Europe and the Orient, the biggest producer, consumer, and exporter of cherries is the United States. Most sweet cherries are grown on the West Coast; Washington State is the biggest producer. The two most common varieties are Lamberts and Bings. Lamberts ripen earlier and are smaller and more tender than Bings. They range in color from deep pink to red, with a soft somewhat watery flesh and a deep red or blackish-red juice.