Description
The Cereja da Cova da Beira PGI are cherries produced by the native cherry trees of the area. There are many varieties here but the principal ones are Morangão and De Saco.
Production Area
Cereja da Cova da Beira PGI cherries grow in the municipal areas of Fundão, Covilhã and Belmonte, in the Castelo Branco district.
Production Method
The climate in the Cova da Beira area is influenced by its position between the mountains of the Serre de la Gardunha, Estrela and Malcata. This location provides a significant amount of cold weather, mild spring weather and protection from the winds. The cherries are harvested from the beginning of May to July. There are 1,200 hectares of cherry orchard with 238 trees per hectare.
Appearance and Flavour
Cereja da Cova da Beira PGI cherries are between 24 mm and 28 mm in diameter and weigh between 7 gr and 10 gr each. The colour varies depending on the variety, from a bright red to dark red. The stem is long, thick and light green in colour. The fruit is compact and very sweet.
History
The Cereja da Cova da Beira PGI has been cultivated here since the beginning of the 19th century and was the principal reason for the development of agriculture in the area. Large cherry orchards have been established relatively recently and do not have the long tradition of many of the other food products. However this fruit has become of increasing economic importance in the region and there are many local proverbs relating to it such as: "As palavras são como as cerejas, atrás de uma vêm as outras" (words are like cherries, one of them leads to another). And, still today, it is the custom to offer a bouquet of cherry blossom to the bride and groom in spring time weddings.
Gastronomy
Cereja da Cova da Beira PGI must be stored in a cool dry place. They are delicious eaten fresh or in desserts. Among the many local desserts using cherries are: cherries with rice, oven-cooked cherries with sweet potatoes and boiled cherries and chestnuts. They are also used for liqueurs and there is also a local tradition of using them for medicinal purposes. The stems are infused to help relieve arthritis, gout, obesity and urinary problems.
Marketing
These cherries are sold as Cereja da Cova da Beira PGI. They are sold in 0,250; 0,500 and 1 kg covets.
Distinctive Features
The main varieties of Cereja da Cova da Beira PGI cherry are Burlat and De Saco. These are the oldest varieties and do not suffer during transport.
