News about Spain

How genetics shapes cherry flavor: from sweet sorbitol to tart malic acid

Breeding

01 Jul 2025

Researchers from Clemson University and Spain’s CITA discovered the genetic basis of sweetness and acidity in sweet cherries. With QTL mapping and haplotype analysis, breeders can now develop better-tasting, more stable varieties tailored to consumer preferences in Europe.

Early cherry varieties in Spain: ANA Chile® explores new promising genotypes

Varieties

20 Jun 2025

During the 2025 Technical Tour in Spain, ANA Chile® evaluated very early and low-chill cherry varieties, already present in Chile. Selections like the promising Selection 10 and Ibergen genotypes showed excellent quality, productivity, and commercial potential.

Calatayud cherries: DPZ strengthens the path toward PGI

Specialties

17 Jun 2025

Calatayud and Aranda cherries gain technical support from the Zaragoza Provincial Council for PGI recognition. A key step in a journey started in 2018, backed by local institutions, growers, and the Aragonese Government to promote this outstanding fruit.

Picota cherries shine despite rain, strong harvest ahead

Production

10 Jun 2025

The 2025 Picota cherry season in Spain’s Jerte Valley starts two weeks late, but expectations are high for a medium-to-large harvest with excellent fruit quality. Rain and hail had minimal impact. The UK remains the top export market for the product, followed by Spain.

Jerte PDO expands with 7,000 tons of certified cherries expected

Markets

06 Jun 2025

The 2025 Jerte PDO cherry campaign kicks off with three newly certified varieties: Van, Lapins, and Burlat. The goal is to ensure better quality and longer presence in European markets, with an expected output of 7,000 tons of fresh cherries and carefully selected picotas.

How to avoid soft cherries under cover: the macrotunnel model in Spain and Chile

Covers

06 Jun 2025

Early cherry production under plastic covers is expanding in Chile and Spain, but fruit quality relies on careful management of light, humidity and temperature. Expert Javier De Pablo explains the drawbacks of rain covers and the advantages of automated macrotunnels.

Jerte Cherries 2025: harvest delays, labor sourcing and China export strategy

Production

05 Jun 2025

The 2025 cherry season in Spain’s Jerte Valley, Extremadura, started late but aims for stable output, local labor recruitment, and cautious entry into the Chinese market. The Protected Designation of Origin is also expanding to include three historic varieties.

Cherry exports to China: a promising but complex challenge for Jerte

Markets

30 May 2025

The opening of the Chinese market to Jerte cherries marks a new chapter for Spain's cherry sector, but brings complex export protocols. José Antonio Tierno stresses the need for caution, as past experiences with other fruits haven’t always delivered sustainable outcomes.

Mercadona bets on 8,500 tons of Aragon cherries for the 2025 season

Markets

29 May 2025

Mercadona will purchase 8,500 tons of cherries from Aragon during the 2025 season, representing 77% of the national total. The campaign supports the local economy, creates 3,000 jobs, and promotes a sweet, nutritious Spanish fruit from suppliers like SAT Vidrio and Summer Fruit.

Why Spanish cherries are conquering China: luxury, health and booming market

Markets

09 May 2025

Spanish cherries are conquering China as a symbol of luxury and prosperity. Thanks to e-commerce, emotional marketing, premium quality, rising demand, social media, and packaging, Spain has a unique chance to stand out in China’s highly competitive fresh premium cherry market.