Production of Angelica pears in Italy down by 75%

It was a year to forget for the Alessandri family, with a loss of 75 percent of their production. However, the Italian company, which cultivates more than 20 hectares of Angelica di Romagna in Cesena (FC), has at least understood the importance of its product on the wholesale markets.

"Unfortunately, because of the frost," says Luciano Alessandri, "we lost 75 percent of our production. And there was a hailstorm as well. However, there was such a demand for the product that even the hail-damaged fruit was sold without a problem. Depending on the quality and size, the prices were high: from 3 to 6 euros per kilo."

This pear is characterized by its high Brix level, which makes it very sweet, and by its very fine flesh, typical of a summer pear. But the surprising aspect is its firmness. Although it turns a deep yellow color, the flesh inside remains firm and healthy. We have tested it and found that it can last until March, but this year it is practically finished."

Having only 25% as much fruit as in a typical year, Alessandri had to ship less product. Few customers were satisfied. "I was so sorry that I wasn't able to please everybody, but unfortunately that was how things worked out."

The history of this variety is quite unique: it originated in the Marches region, in the Pesaro-Urbino area, which is why a festival dedicated to this fruit is held every year in Serrungarina. "However, with the passage of time, the number of growers has been drastically reduced and there are only a few of us left who produce it on a professional level," adds Alessandri.

Alessandri harvested less than 150 tons this year, compared to a potential yield of 600 tons. "We do not have any frost protection systems in place and this year the event hit us very hard," he concludes.