Apples, pears, grapes. Autumn brings new flavours and the Oltrepò Pavese area is rich in them. The microclimate and the diversity of the soils favour the production of many types of fruit, cultivated by small local producers who preserve the ancient cultivation and harvesting techniques, thus contributing to the preservation of local traditions and the enhancement of the area's agricultural heritage. Some examples? The Genovese Pomella, the Russet Apple, the San Giovanni Pear and the Ice Pear.
Discovering the orchards
A sensory journey through the orchards of producers who have dedicated themselves to cultivating and preserving the varieties will make you appreciate the quality of the fruit of the Oltrepò Pavese.
The most important areas are Val Staffora and Val di Nizza: here you will find small farms that have taken advantage of the different exposures and altitudes to produce quality fruit, some of which is considered a real rarity.
The fruit-growing heritage of Oltrepo Pavese dates back to ancient times, when the plants were grown in mixed crops, in rows that divided the cereal fields or the vineyards themselves, near houses, vegetable gardens or pastures. An important presence that developed without precise planning, as it was cultivated for personal use and for the market. For this reason, there was a great variety of plants, some of which are now true niche products. It is impossible to find them in the supermarket, you have to go directly to the producer. In Oltrepò Pavese.
Forgotten fruits to rediscover
In recent years, these 'forgotten' varieties have regained popularity with a growing number of consumers seeking local produce and ancient flavours. Short supply chains and zero-kilometre products are promoting knowledge and access to fruits that deserve to be rediscovered.
In particular, autumn fruit is characterised by its sugar content, which is favoured by ripening that has enjoyed the sun and summer heat throughout its development. Nature could offer a wide range of products, but we know that the market generally offers only a few varieties. However, the heritage of agricultural biodiversity that the Oltrepò Pavese can boast includes products that have been consumed for centuries.
In search of characteristic flavours
Fruit bought from large retailers has a longer shelf life than fruit bought from a small grower who does not use post-harvest treatments. In fact, poor preservation and easy fermentation, which can quickly destroy the most precious aromas, are the reasons that have led us to forget certain varieties. A trend that is slowly being reversed and that leads us to the small villages beyond the Po Valley in search of producers offering fruit with the most distinctive flavours. Not only for fresh consumption, but also for alternative preparations such as preserves or jams to accompany cheeses.
