Description
The Pêssego da Cova da Beira PGI is a peach belonging to the Prunus persica Sieb. and Zucc. species, in several varieties: Dixired, Red Top, J. H. Hale, Merril Franciscan, Black, Rubidoux, Carnival and Halloween. It is a delicious fruit, very much sought after and grown in the little valleys formed by the river Zêzere.
Production Area
Pêssego da Cova da Beira PGI peaches are grown in the municipal areas of Fundão, Covilhã, Manteigas and Belmonte, in the Castelo Branco district.
Production Method
The orchards cover an area of 2,200 hectares. Pêssego da Cova da Beira PGI peaches ripen late. Each variety varies in colour and pigmentation depending on the amount of sugar they contain, which must always be greater than 7%. Where possible, after sorting and boxing the fruit is subjected to a short time of refrigeration at 5°C to 8°C and 90% to 95% humidity.
Appearance and Flavour
The Pêssego da Cova da Beira PGI is a highly perfumed fruit, very juicy, with yellow flesh and a flavour that will satisfy the most demanding palate.
History
Having achieved a great success with the growing of cherries in this region the local people began growing Pêssego da Cova da Beira PGI peaches, an extremely tasty and juicy variety of peach. For this reason, about 50 years ago, yellow flesh peaches were introduced and soon became in great demand.
Gastronomy
Pêssego da Cova da Beira PGI peaches are perishable and must be stored at a temperature of 2°C to 4°C. They are normally eaten fresh but are also an excellent ingredient in delicious desserts, fruit juices, jams, liqueurs and yoghurts.
Marketing
These peaches are sold as Pêssego da Cova da Beira PGI. They are sold prepacked in 1 kg covets.
Distinctive Features
The various varieties of Pêssego da Cova da Beira PGI peaches are produced in an area with an unique climate:Cova da Beira, crossed by the river Zêzere and lying between the Serra da Gardunha and the Serra da Estrela mountains which protect the trees from the strong Atlantic winds.
