Late-ripening cherries: the advantages of Calatayud varieties

05 Dec 2024
546

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

'The expert reports’: the new Cherry Times column

Tech management

13 Sep 2024

Dr. Patricio Morales, a Chilean consultant and internationally renowned agronomist, will contribute a regular column to our publication, focusing on highly topical technical and practical aspects with a strong professional content on cherry cultivation.

Prediction and control of Drosophila suzukii: the SIMKEF model

Crop protection

29 Oct 2024

The SIMKEF model, which aims to predict and control the insect using models based on temperature data, combines various climatic and biological parameters to estimate the (daily) probability of occurrence of the pest.

In evidenza

Cherry pruning: a winning strategy for Chilean quality and competitiveness

Tech management

24 Jun 2025

At Cherry Tech 2025, agronomist Carlos Tapia explained how strategic cherry pruning—supported by NDVI mapping and spatial analysis—can reduce labor, improve fruit size, and enhance profitability. A cost-effective, high-impact tool to maintain Chile’s global cherry leadership.

Blossoming Japan: the Sano family's mission to protect the Sakura

Specialties

24 Jun 2025

In Kyoto, Japan, the Sano family has protected a rare cherry blossom garden for generations. Tōemon Sano, 97, Japan’s most revered sakuramori, continues his mission to shield sakura trees from climate change and preserve their fleeting beauty and deep cultural significance.

Tag Popolari