Skylar Rae is a bicolor variety of cherries, known as "the sweetest in the world," introduced by Rivoira Group as part of a project to bring innovation to the cherry sector, both in Italy and abroad. Marco Rivoira, CEO of the group, shares the story and objectives of this project.
Ten years ago, in the USA, the Toftness family discovered a natural mutation in a plant, registering the variety under the name Tip Top, commercially sold as Skylar Rae. Rivoira Group holds the exclusive rights for Europe, aiming to cover 400 hectares. Skylar Rae is renowned for its sweetness, reaching 23-25 degrees brix, and its crispness and low acidity.
Currently, 25 hectares have been planted in 2024, and trial plants are located in various regions including Northern Europe, Germany, France, Spain, Southern Italy, and Piedmont. Initial commercial tests were conducted last year in Italy and this year in France, with positive responses. 2026 will mark the beginning of the first true volume campaign, with full production expected by 2027.
The variety yields 12-14 tons per hectare with a medium-large caliber and is less sensitive to rain cracking. However, it is susceptible to extremely high temperatures, risking sugar spot formation if harvesting is delayed. Rivoira has studied management techniques in the USA, where it is promoted as a caramelized cherry. The company practices integrated agriculture with plants protected by insect and rain netting to minimize treatments.
In Italy, the market for bicolor cherries is still nonexistent, unlike countries such as Belgium, the Netherlands, France, USA, and Chile. The objective is to differentiate the cherry sector with a premium Club product. The project aims to export 70% of the product to international markets and 30% to Italy, aiming to replicate the success of Gala apples.
Asian markets, where bicolor cherries are appreciated for their sweetness, represent a significant opportunity, despite the lack of a phytosanitary trade agreement with China. The product will be exported by air and positioned as premium, with a price premium of 30% compared to traditional cherries.
The product will be sold at a premium price, with a 30% increase over standard cherries. The packaging will include the brand and the variety name, Tip Top, accompanied by a targeted communication campaign. There is also planned entry into the Italian organized large-scale retail (GDO).
From initial tests, there are no issues with price acceptance. Rivoira already has premium lines, such as Sweet, which have seen a 34% increase compared to standard prices. The company is also investing in other promising varieties, like the German Kir Vulcano, resistant to cracking and highly productive.
Production in Piedmont is a new venture for Rivoira. Despite rainfall reducing production by 30% this year, covered plants mitigated the damage, allowing for a successful campaign in the GDO with a high-quality product. Challenging climatic conditions are a global issue, but Rivoira is determined to overcome them and continue to grow.
Skylar Rae represents a revolution in the cherry market, with Rivoira Group aiming to innovate and differentiate the sector with a high-quality product and great commercial potential.
Source: Fresh Point Magazine
Image: MOMO Bud
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