Description
The Manzana Reineta del Bierzo PDO is an apple from the Malus domestica Borkh species in the white Reineta or Rineta of Canada and grey Reineta varieties.
Production Area
The production area of Manzana Reineta del Bierzo PDO is located in 38 municipal areas of Bierzo, in the north-eastern side of the León district, in the Autonomous Community of Castilla y León.
Production Method
The apple orchards to cultivate this PDO apple must have specific characteristics of altitude, indeed they must not be situated over 750 m, while the ground pH must be lower than 6 and the plants must be at least 3 years old. Harvesting starts in the 2 first weeks of September, when the fruits achieved the right level of maturation, and it is accurately made as well as the transportation to prevent from the deterioration of fruits. The techniques and systems used for its storage, conditioning and packaging are made in full respect of the physical, chemical and organoleptic features of the apples certified.
Appearance and Flavour
Manzana Reineta del Bierzo PDO apples have a characteristic flavour, slightly acid with a touch of grass and vanilla scents. They are very crunchy and succulent and slightly floury. Their flavour is strong, with a right balance between acidity and sweetness. The typical colour of Manzana Reineta del Bierzo PDO, white Reineta or Reineta of Canada is dark green, while the one of grey Reineta is greyish-green. The entire surface of the fruit features a ferruginous look.
History
The Manzana Reineta del Bierzo PDO was brought to Spain during the domination of the Roman Empire. Its cultivation expanded rapidly in the area in the 12th, 13th and 14th centuries thanks to the different religious orders which used to cultivate fruit orchards in their monasteries.
Gastronomy
The Manzana Reineta del Bierzo PDO can be stored in fresh rooms or in the refrigerator. It can be eaten fresh or used to prepare different recipes. It is suitable to prepare different types of dessert like pies and apples filled with chestnuts and wrapped with marzipan. It combines well with meat-based dishes or grilled with vegetables and greens.
Marketing
The product is sold as Manzana Reineta del Bierzo PDO in the Extra and I classes. The product is packed in cardboard or wood boxes or in suitable trays with different sizes. The apples are also sold by measure, in kg.
Distinctive Features
The hot and humid climate of the production area, which is surrounded by a rift zone and influenced by both Atlantic and Mediterranean climates, is the decisive element to reach the peculiarities of the Manzana Reineta del Bierzo PDO. In fact, the ratio between the number of hours during which the apple is exposed to the sun and the direct influence of temperature on the level of sugars cause the contrasting acid/sweet flavour. While the combination between temperature and humidity is the decisive element to reach a hard pulp.
