"PGI Interdonato lemons from Messina start the Italian citrus fruit season as they are the first PGI lemons available on the market. This year, volumes are approximately 20% lower due to the temperature changes of the past few months, which damaged the crops," reports Valentina Sanna from La Costiera.
"Our objective is to promote this product both in Italy and abroad. Fruits are available in 500 gram nets, as recognized by the consortium."
Interdonato is a variety typical of the Sicilian region, where it is grown on the Ionian coast. It is characterized by an early September ripening, which means it can be eaten straight away, though it reaches it full potential between November and December. Fruits are harvested using scissors to avoid removing the stem stub. Yields are between 80 and 130 kg per plant.
"The campaign ends between January and February, and there is usually a drop in sales around the Christmas period as the markets tend to prefer Primofiore di Sicilia and PGI Sorrento lemons."
Fruits are characterized by medium-high yields between 80 and 350 grams, a typical elliptical shape, a matte green color at the start of ripening which then turns yellow, a yellow flesh with a medium firmness and rare or absent pips, juice yields not below 25% and a total acidity below 5%."
The Italian Bergamot campaign is also underway at La Costiera.
"The Italian Bergamot season started earlier than usual, but it is just as productive as last year. Quality is excellent with a green color that is synonymous with a significant organoleptic quality. Bergamot are available in 3 kg crates. Stay tuned for other news on the current campaigns."
For further information:
La Costiera
Via Pantanello, II tr. dx - Zona Industriale
04022 Fondi (LT) - Italy
+39 0771 531807
limonilacostiera@gmail.com
www.la-costiera.com