After a lively start of the campaign, the mango season in Sicily is coming to an end with the most suitable cultivars for this part of the year. The prices reached at the start in August did not stay too high for the rest of the season, but production in the Thyrrenian area was truly satisfactory.
Mango of the (late) Sensation variety during its first year fruiting year
"Sales of Kensington Pride were amazing and, despite the few difficulties caused by the rain, we were not affected by the weather when it comes to yields or organoleptic qualities, so much so that prices were 20% higher than last year. So far, we have commercialized 20 tons of produce," explains Vincenzo Amata, owner of prestigious brand Papamango.
Vincenzo Amata
"Volumes are destined to grow, as we will soon start with the late cultivars with their own distinctive elements. Kent, for example, grows very aromatic fruits with a yellow-green color and a red hue when ripe. Each fruit weighs around 600 g and the flesh is very sweet. It is the first fruiting year for Keitt and Sensation, but they look promising."
"Thanks to varietal diversification, we need to cover the entire season until late October and even beyond that. Anyway everything depends on the weather. Of course we have incredible soil and weather conditions in Sant'Agata di Militello (ME) compared to other production areas, so ripening conditions are better. This year, our quality was similar to that of exotic countries, yet with the advantage of a short chain, phytosanitary security and sustainability."
"From now on, we expect prices to be slightly higher than those of Kensington. My sales strategy is based on commercializing produce that has ripened on trees, though it requires a considerable management effort. Our mangoes always have the right Brix level."
"Mango fruits tell us when they are ready to be harvested through their color and firmness. We have sacrificed a few, but managed to sell only the best ones. Feedback was great from both our big retail and wholesale clients, who complimented us on our regular supplies of excellent produce."
Contacts:
Azienda Agr. Bianco Rosalia 
C.da Giancola, 2/A
98076 Sant'Agata di Militello (ME)
Mob.: +39 393 9110524
Email: info@papamango.it
Website: www.papamango.it