This year at Fruit Attraction, a new apple variety was presented to visitors: the Cœur de Reine. This new apple will also be a partner of the Week of Taste which will take place from October 11 to 17, 2021.
Created in France, the Cœur de Reine is grown exclusively in designated areas (Garonne Valley, Loire Valley and the Alps), in eco-responsible orchards certified with the High Environmental Value label. It was born from the research of a French nurseryman who crossed the Elstar and Pilot varieties.
The Blue Whale team at Fruit Attraction in Madrid
"In addition to its taste qualities, it is an apple variety that is very interesting from an agronomic point of view. We succeed in growing it to the required size without risking a particularly high sensitivity to certain pests", explains Christophe Belloc, President of the Blue Whale Group.
The Cœur de Reine, an apple that meets French people's expectations
The Cœur de Reine, an apple that meets French people' expectations
Apples are the most consumed fruit in France. It is enjoyed by all generations under various forms: as a snack, in applesauce, in pies, etc. Consumption trends (source: CTIFL 2019 study) show that French consumers are looking for quality and locally produced apples that respect health and the environment, and that are versatile in their uses, without forgetting the flavor aspect.
With these expectations in mind, the Blue Whale growers decided five years ago to plant this new variety, named Daliclass, which produces the Cœur de Reine apple. The most suitable terroirs were selected and three of them were chosen to develop the production: the Garonne Valley, the Loire Valley and the Alps.
In 2021, nearly 2,800 tons will be harvested, despite the fact that frost has affected a large part of the French orchards. The company's ambition is to produce 7,000 tons within five years and to place it among the Top 5 favorite apples of the French consumers.
About Blue Whale
Blue Whale is a group of 300 French growers operating in high-quality terroirs: the Garonne Valley, the Loire Valley, the Centre, the Alps, and in Provence. The packing stations are located close to the producers and the points of sale (proximity / local). 6,100 hectares of eco-responsible orchards, of which more than 95% are HVE, and 200 new varieties under study in experimental orchards (all species of apples, pears, and plums).
For more information:
Blue Whale
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