"With so many new varieties and clubs entering the fruit market, we are the exception as we offer historical varieties such as Golden, Granny and Emperor apples, Grossa di Felisio and President plums, as well as Abate and William pears. In our opinion, there is a return to historical varieties. Jokingly, I would say that we are the right nursery for anarchic farmers," explains Paolo Pini, head of Vivai Pietro Chinaglia.
Paolo Pini at the recent Interpoma fair
"I believe consumers consider dated varieties a certainty. This is not just happening in Italy, but abroad as well: it is no coincidence that we export 50% of our plants. In many cases, old varieties have a good degree of adaptation to climate change."
The Chinaglia nurseries boast an ancient history dating back to the late 19th century. "We were among the first Italians to export to Russia over 30 years ago, and now that is a declining market. However, requests from neighbouring countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and other former CIS nations are increasing."
Pears are going through a period of transition. "In Italy, lately we have been mostly selling in the Veneto and Lombardy, with the historical Abate, William, and the more recent Carmen varieties. But new pear orchards are being set up abroad as well. As for apples, we are focusing on Imperatore, widespread in the Verona area, and then the biggest share is for Golden and Granny."
When it comes to stone fruit, Chinaglia does a good job with plums with the timeless President, Grossa di Felisio and Stanley varieties, the latter especially abroad.
"Among the countries to which we export, we should mention the Netherlands for Conference, and Austria for Kaiser, plus several other varieties of top and stone fruits are sent to Poland, Romania and Moldova, just to name a few."
For more information:
Vivai Pietro Chinaglia
+39 0425 66071
[email protected]
www.pietrochinagliavivai.it