Description
The Ameixa d'Elvas PDO is a plum belonging to the Regina Claudia variety of the Prunus domestica species.
Production Area
Ameixa d'Elvas PDO is grown in the municipal areas of Alandroal, Borba, Campo Maior, Elvas, Estremoz, Monforte, Sousel and Vila Viçosa in the districts of évora and Portalegre.
Production Method
Even though there are many small, family run growers of these plums most modern orchards are run on an industrial scale. The climate and soil of this region are very suited to the growing of this type of plum tree. The high temperatures recorded particularly at ripening time result in very sweet fruit. These plums are either sold fresh (Ameixa Fresca), dried (Ameixa em Passa) or bottled in syrup
Appearance and Flavour
Ameixa d'Elvas PDO is an oval shaped green plum. The minimum diameter is 32 mm and it has an 18°Bx sweetness factor before ripening. The flesh is extremely succulent and it has an intense perfume. It has a small stone which comes away easily from the flesh of the fruit.
History
Ameixa d'Elvas PDO is known locally as Abrunho. It is presumed that it came from France as it was initially imported as an ornamental tree for the garden. This fruit has been famous since the time of Prince Alphonse Henry, the first king of Portugal, in the 15th century. Its fame spread as far as Great Britain where it was greatly relished. Lord Wellington himself always asked to be served this fruit during the time he spent in Portugal. José Guerra had already begun large scale growing of this plum as far back as 1834. Ameixa plums received a bronze medal at the Paris Exhibition of 1855 and in 1875 they began being exported, even as far as America. In just a little more than one hundred years this fruit has received 203 international and national prizes.
Gastronomy
Ameixa d'Elvas PDO should be kept in a cool, airy place or in the fridge. It is eaten as a snack or dessert, or used in its dried form as an ingredient in cakes and pastries.
Marketing
This fruit is sold as Ameixa d'Elvas PDO, in the following varieties: Ameixa Fresca, Ameixa em Passa and Ameixa Confitada. It is sold in cardboard boxes or round or rectangular wooden crates.
Distinctive Features
Sometimes, for decorative effect alternate rows of Ameixa d'Elvas PDO fruits are dusted with sugar.
