In a small saucepan, combine the halved fresh cherries with about 2 tablespoons of water. Heat over low heat, simmering for 3-5 minutes until the cherries are soft and beginning to break down.

While the cherries are simmering, bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a separate pot. Once boiling, remove from heat and add the Earl Grey tea bag or 1 teaspoon of loose leaf tea. Steep for 3-5 minutes, then remove the tea bag or strain out the leaves.

Pour ½ cup of warmed milk into the saucepan with the softened cherries. Stir gently to combine, allowing the flavors to meld harmoniously. If desired, add a cinnamon stick and continue heating on low for about 2 minutes.

Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of vanilla syrup into the cherry and milk mixture, adjusting to your liking.

In a mug, pour the brewed Earl Grey tea as the base. Strain the cherry-milk mixture over the tea, pressing on the cherries to extract all the juice and flavor.

For an iced version, allow the mixture to cool before pouring it over a glass filled with ice.