Producers in Ribera del Xúquer are already immersed in the harvesting and handling of kakis under the label of the Protected Designation of Origin Ribera del Xúquer, which markets the fruit under the exclusive Persimon brand.
Across the world, there are more than 2,000 kaki varieties recorded. It is originally the fruit of an Asian tree that was introduced in Europe between the seventeenth and the nineteenth century because of its wood. The European Union recognized the uniqueness of the kakis grown in the Ribera del Xúquer, because in that region, thanks to the good work carried out by experts in the field, the astringency of the Rojo Brillante variety has been eliminated. This recognition arrived 20 years ago in the form of a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). The Persimon brand has been developed in parallel within the framework of the PDO. This is a way to ensure that the authentic kakis of the Rojo Brillante variety protected by the PDO reach the consumer with all guarantees.
The campaign is short and usually lasts from October to December, sometimes January. The good soil in which the trees grow is one of the conditions that make it possible to grow this fruit, which must be looked after to ensure that it has the right flavor and aroma.
• Adequate ripeness: A predominance of green over orange in the skin entails immaturity and makes the fruit unsuitable for consumption.
• Deadline: the Regulatory Board of the PDO annually sets a date, after which the "Persimon®" kakis can be harvested and sold to consumers.
• Color: the skin color varies depending on the time of the campaign.
• Marks on the skin: Kakis are a very sensitive fruit. It is common to find superficial defects in the skin, caused even by the rubbing of branches and leaves during growth.
• Darker areas: it is common to find brown or darker areas under the skin. They can appear when peeling it. They are normal and do not have an impact on the quality of the fruit.
• Handling: excessive handling and pressure can damage them.
• Do not store the fruit in the fridge. It is not convenient.
The Rojo Brillante kakis sold under the Persimon brand are ready for consumption; it is not necessary to let them ripen, since they are meant to be firm, with a crunchy texture.
More information: www.persimon.eu