The commercialization of Carciofo Spinoso Sardo, a vegetable that can be traced to the Cynara Scolymus variety, lasts around 7 months.
The 2018/19 campaign was characterized by the low availability of fresh produce. In northern Sardinia, fields did a little better than in the south as the hailstorms and heavy rain that hit southern Sardinia in November and December compromised production.
"The campaign went a little better in the north," explains Giovanni Pes, president of Valle del Coghinas, in Valledonia (Sassari).
Carciofo spinoso sardo DOP obtained the mark in 2011 and stands out against other varieties not only for its aromatic flavor but also due to its unmistakable appearance. The product has unique organoleptic qualities (it is rich in iron, magnesium, potassium and other antioxidants) and an oblong conic shape with a pointed apex ending with peculiar yellow spines.
"Despite the unfavorable weather, those who managed to produce quite a few heads did not do so bad, as prices exceeded €0.28/head."
There was little produce available both in the markets and in retail. It is a niche artichoke that is only found in some markets in northern Italy and mainly in Piedmont, Liguria and Lombardy.
The gross production is dropping year after year. Over the past few years, the lack of rain and warm temperatures in winter led to overproduction. "This in turn has meant producers decided to invest less in these artichokes."
"During the 2018/19 season, our company commercialized around 6 million heads. We confirm the same quantities although we are experimenting with new varieties that will make it possible to supply markets in central Italy as well."
Contacts:
Società Agricola Valle del Coghinas
Via S. Maria Coghinas
Valledoria SS 07039
Tel.: (+39) 079/585960