Late-ripening cherries: the advantages of Calatayud varieties

05 Dec 2024
1437

The regions of Calatayud and Aranda are a benchmark for cherry production in Spain.

Cherries grown in the regions of Calatayud and Aranda, in the province of Zaragoza, have become a national reference. With over 3,000 hectares cultivated in 20 municipalities, this region is the leader in the Spanish market with an annual harvest exceeding 20 million kilograms. This leadership is not only due to the quantity of production, but also to the exceptional quality of the product, the result of the unique climatic and orographic conditions of the area.

Unique Characteristics of the Cherries from Calatayud and Aranda

Its success is due to its distinctive characteristics:

  • Size: the fruits stand out for their size and appearance.
  • Optimal sugar level (Brix): the sweetness of these cherries is perfect for fresh consumption.
  • Hardness and resistance: their compactness makes them an ideal product for both national and international markets.

Several varieties are produced in the region, but those with a late maturation provide a differential value in the market, in addition to a unique flavor and high preservation capacity.

Towards a Quality Brand

The excellence of the cherries from Calatayud has led to the proposal to create a quality brand. This brand will certify the unique characteristics of the product, facilitating its recognition in the most demanding markets, both nationally and internationally.

Moreover, local brands such as Mountaincherry, Montse, and Capirotas are already gaining prestige and consolidating themselves as reference points in the sector. The cherries of Calatayud have great potential to expand their presence globally, and certification of their quality will be a key tool to strengthen their positioning.

Tradition and Innovation in Balance

Its cultivation is a clear example of how agricultural tradition can be integrated with innovation in cultivation techniques. This combination has allowed the region to remain at the forefront, ensuring both sustainability and the quality of production.

The sector is not only an economic driver in these regions, but also a symbol of the commitment to local development and excellence in the agricultural sector.

A Promising Future

The consolidation of a Quality Brand will be essential to ensure the growth and recognition of Calatayud cherries in international markets. This step will ensure that the effort and dedication of the region's farmers translate into greater visibility and prestige for this star product.

In short, the product has demonstrated that its commitment to tradition, innovation, and sustainability positions it as an undisputed reference in the production of quality fruit. This is the path towards a future in which Calatayud cherries will continue to lead the market and conquer the palates of the world.

Source: Calatayud Empresa
Images: Calatayud Empresa


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

It will be a record for world cherry production: 5 million tonnes are expected by 2025

Markets

19 Sep 2024

World production next season will be 4.958 million tonnes. The figure represents a growth of 1% year-on-year and 62% over the numbers of a decade ago. Exports are expected at 759,000 tonnes, almost equal to last year's volume,

Strategies for monitoring and controlling harmful insects in cherry orchards

Crop protection

22 May 2024

Capturing and monitoring insects with attractive traps is crucial to decide on treatments in time and prevent problems during fruit ripening. Recently, traps without liquids have been introduced that simplify the control of D. suzukii.

In evidenza

Optimization of drying methods for sweet cherries to maximize quality, nutrients, and color

Processed

13 Feb 2026

A joint study by Turkish institutes and the Islamia University of Bahawalpur (Pakistan) compares three sweet cherry drying technologies: MWD, MWHAD and Solar Tunnel Drying. Drying time, color, sugars, organic acids and phenolic compounds were evaluated for quality.

Cherries and economic sustainability: the new frontier of modern orchards

Production

13 Feb 2026

In modern cherry orchards, economic sustainability is now essential. From varietal selection to season management, including yield, storage and packhouse efficiency, genetics and operational performance drive profitability across the global cherry supply chain.

Tag Popolari