Description
The Gurken von der Insel Reichenau PGI are cucumbers belonging to the variety Cucumis sativus.
Production Area
The production area of the Gurken von der Insel Reichenau PGI is within the island of Reichenau, which is on the Lake Constance and is part of the Reichenau municipal area, belonging to the city of Konstanz in the federal state of Baden-Württemberg.
Production Method
On the grounds used for the cultivation of the Gurken von der Insel Reichenau PGI, the weeds are eradicated using mechanical means. The peculiarity of this culture is the necessary annual control of the soil and the biologic pest control to fight parasites. The harvest of the cucumbers lasts all year long, takes place by hand and almost exclusively during the first morning hours.
Appearance and Flavour
The Gurken von der Insel Reichenau PGI have a variable weight, varying from 300 to 900 gr. They have a long and straight shape and a typical dark green colour.
History
The origins of the Gurken von der Insel Reichenau PGI, whose cultivation is linked to the monastic tradition of the island, date back to the beginning of the 20th century. In fact, already in 1932, the cucumber cultivations extended over 300 hectares of land, to then further increase in the successive decades.
Gastronomy
The Gurken von der Insel Reichenau PGI should be kept in the less cold part of the refrigerator. These cucumbers should exclusively be consumed fresh. In addition to being delicious in mixed salads, they are very tasty served with fish and crab dishes, or if used for the preparation of a cucumber cream.
Marketing
The product is sold as Gurken von der Insel Reichenau PGI. They are marketed packaged according to weight and shape. Cucumbers are divided into different classes. Based on their weight, they are divided into: 300-400 gr, 400-500 gr, 500-600 gr, 600-750 gr, and over 750 gr, corresponding to class I; and those with a curvature that is too pronounced belonging to class II.
Distinctive Features
The ideal conditions for the production of the Gurken von der Insel Reichenau PGI are high temperatures and hygrometry, as well as a regular water supply. These conditions are satisfied thanks to the protected cultivation practiced on the island. Its lake, acting as light and heat accumulator, guarantees optimal growing conditions.
