Nominated for the Sival d'Or in the Varietal Innovation category, the brand new Kiara® pear (Cepora cov.), unveiled this summer to growers and technicians, was presented on November 25th and 26th at SITEVI in Montpellier. What attracted the most attention?
© CEP Innovation
A taste that stays in the mouth
Two tasting sessions were organized to give as many people as possible the opportunity to discover the product. For most of the growers and technicians, "what stands out immediately is its very sweet taste (between 13 and 15° Brix at harvest) and its aromatic persistence," explains Claire Thouminot, head of variety projects and development at CEP Innovation. "Some professionals have mentioned floral aromas, others spicier notes. Several growers even said that they tasted 'a fabulous pear, the best of the year.' Even those who do not usually enjoy pears said that they loved it. Everyone was charmed by its qualities," explains Claire Thouminot.
A rustic look and marketing flexibility
As far as the visual aspect is concerned, Claire Thouminot admits that "it is not a fruit selected for its beauty, but its rustic look did not bother us. Its flexibility for marketing also attracted a lot of attention, as the Kiara® pear requires few hours of refrigeration before ripening, while offering excellent performance after a longer shelf-life (up to 7 months). The fact that it can be marketed in both summer and winter is seen as a real advantage."
© CEP Innovation
A free variety
What really caught our attention was the way it is distributed. It is not a Club variety so "it is open to everyone. It can be planted by anyone, which makes it much more accessible, especially to small growers," explains Claire Thouminot. In fact, one of them, convinced by its potential, indicated that he wants to offer it for direct sale.
Resistance to fire blight and dual use
Another major advantage is its excellent resistance to fire blight (one of the main areas of research being carried out by Inrae), which has been welcomed by a number of growers well aware of the health issues involved. The trials also showed that Kiara® could be used for both the fresh and processing markets.
© CEP Innovation
"Partner nurseries are confident"
Some of the trees produced have already been sold or reserved. "Our partner nurseries are fairly confident about the future," explains Claire Thouminot. A pear day will be organized by the La Pugère experimental station on January 8th. "All the new varieties should be presented: Kiara®, but also Eden Gold, Qtee and Fred."
For more information:
© CEP Innovation
CEP Innovation
Phone: +33(0)4 72 72 49 02
[email protected]
