Description
The Cerezas de la Montaña de Alicante PGI are cherries from the Buriat, Tilagua, Pianera, Picota, Starking, Corazón de Pichón and Ambrunesa varieties.
Production Area
The production area of Cerezas de la Montaña de Alicante PGI covers the northern part of the district of Alicante and the southern side of the district of Valencia in the Autonomous Community of Valencia, in eastern Spain.
Production Method
The preparation of the grounds for the plantation of new plants must be made after a suitable treatment of the concerned area. The pruning, one of the most important phases, consists of cutting the branches which obstacle the right branching of young trees, while the trees ready for production must be slightly pruned in a noninvasive manner. The cherry harvesting takes place from April to July and must be made accurately by hand. The transport is managed accurately to not damage the cherries. The fruits must be stored in roofed and ventilated areas for the necessary period with the aim to further improve their colour tone. Later, they are selected and the damaged or ruined fruits are eliminated. The classification depends on colour and size to achieve a homogeneous packaging made only with suitable material and to avoid compromising the quality of fruits.
Appearance and Flavour
The Cerezas de la Montaña de Alicante PGI are sweet fruits characterized by a colour which can be dark red or bright red. Their flesh is soft with a colour nuance going from pink to wine red. The product is round-shaped, with a slightly sharpened base and, depending on varieties, a size of 21 to 28 mm.
History
The origins of Cerezas de la Montaña de Alicante PGI go back to the period of Roman Empire. Indeed, Romans selected and improved the method of cultivation of these trees. The maximum development of these cultivations in this area of Spain took place during the Arabian era.
Gastronomy
The Cerezas de la Montaña de Alicante PGI must be stored in the refrigerator for some days eliminating the damaged fruits. They are eaten fresh, but also used for the preparation of conserves and desserts. Ideal as principal ingredients of a wide range of sweets, jams, cakes and ice-creams, the Cerezas de la Montaña de Alicante PGI can be also used to prepare salty dishes or sauces to accompany meat recipes.
Marketing
The product is sold as Cerezas de la Montaña de Alicante PGI and classified depending on the size in Extra Valls, Extra Normal and Primera. The Cerezas de la Montaña de Alicante PGI are sold in suitable containers of 2 kg and 5 kg.
Distinctive Features
The Cerezas de la Montaña de Alicante PGI are cultivated in one of the highest mountains of the Community of Valencia; an area characterized by grounds with high content of calcium carbonate and a low level of organic matter. These elements give to the products the high quality which makes it unique and highly appreciated.
