Cherry of Vignola PGI

The production area of Cherry of Vignola PGI covers some municipalities in the provinces of Modena and Bologna located in the altimeter range that goes from 30 to 950 meters above sea level, in the Emilia-Romagna region.

For the cultivation of the cherry it is possible to choose to use different forms of breeding (free palmette, flag, low pot or delayed pot or fusetto) and, depending on the type, the density of plants per hectare can reach 2,000. Throughout the year, operations of fertilization, pruning and plant protection are planned, to be implemented in full compliance with the methods, times and quantities dictated in order to ensure the qualitative requirements of the Geographical Indication. In order to prevent the phenomenon of fruit cracking, caused by rains, plants can be covered with plastic sheeting. Harvesting must be done by hand, directly from the plant, taking care to keep the peduncle. Depending on the variety, the fruits are harvested in different periods of the year: from 1 May to 30 June the early ones, from 15 May to 15 July the medium ones and from 25 May to 30 July the late ones.

The cultivation of cherry in the territory of Vignola has ancient and deeply rooted origins. The exceptional soil and climatic conditions of the area meant that the plant found its ideal environment here, becoming over time and thanks to the commitment of farmers, the most important agricultural reality. Numerous historical documents confirm that the plant is present, in association with the vine, already in the mid-nineteenth century and in the years following production and marketing have had a constantly increasing trend.

Characteristics

Cherry of Vignola PGI is a fruit with a sweet and fruity taste. Its flesh is firm and crunchy, except for the Mora di Vignola cultivar. The skin has a color that varies from bright red to dark red, except for the variety Durone, where it is always bright but bright yellow and red. The minimum sizes are 20-23 mm depending on the variety, while the maximum may exceed 28 mm.

Pairings

The cherries of Vignola PGI are excellent as a fruit to be consumed at the end of a meal or for a healthy, tasty and refreshing snack. Great for garnishing sweet recipes such as tarts, cheesecake, tiramisu and ice cream.

A product widely used also for the production of jams, compotes, liqueurs or to be simply put under spirits.