I performed the test on 10 cherries right out of the refrigerator.
Cherries were: Dark Sweet Cherries by Blue Eyed Fox, PLU4045
Distributed by Grand View Fruit LLC., River Valley, WA 98930
Visually there was no discernible difference. (One was maybe a little lighter.)
Viewed at 780 nm with Outdoor lighting – no discernible difference.
Viewed at 780 nm in total darkness illuminated with only a NIR 5W source – no discernible difference.
Taste test: All were delicious, juicy, and sweet. No discernible difference.
Comment: This test neither proves nor disproves the NIR/Sugar content linkage. Rather, it is a testament to the consistency of the cherries themselves and the quality control of the supplier.
Further testing is needed using known limit cherries and/or more objective equipment and methods, i.e., spectrophotometer, gas chromatography.