The Marostica Cherry

The Marostica Cherry
Marostica, a town in the province of Vicenza, is famous for the chessboard at the centre of the square, where a living chess game even takes place every two years. It is also the namesake of a cherry, which was the first to be awarded a Typical Geographical Indication in 2001. The production area lies between the rivers Astico and Brenta. Depending on the altitude and weather, the cherry ripens between May and June. There are two main varieties: sweet and sour. The sweet cherries are known as “duracine”. Their main characteristic are their crunchiness and their colourless, sugary juice. The sour cherries are known as “lustine tenerine”. They have a soft, high-coloured pulp. Since 2006, the Cherry of Marostica has been protected and promoted by a Consortium.

Nutritional and therapeutic properties and recipes
Cherries have detoxifying, laxative and diuretic properties. The great amount of organic acids makes the cherry a valuable ally in improving the acid-alkaline balance in the blood and tissues. The cherry can be helpful in regulating bowel movement, without causing any irritation, and is therefore recommended for those who suffer from constipation, especially the children and the elderly, as well as the gluttonous, the obese and the gouty, because of its diuretic properties, which stimulate the renewal of blood and bodily fluids. Cherry stalks too appear to have a diuretic effect, and cherry stalk tea is instrumental in tackling water retention. The cherry is extremely versatile in the kitchen and can be featured in a number of recipes spanning a full-course meal, from the aperitivo and hors d’oeuvre to the dessert.

The guidelines for the production for the Marostica Cherry.
According to the production guidelines, the Marostica Cherry must have a 2cm diameter to be compliant with the Typical Geographical Indication. Its colour must be bright or dark red, depending on the type. The taste also depends on the type of cherry. The fruits must be handpicked in a number of registered orchards. Only the cherries that exceed the high quality standards are admitted to the market, in containers whose maximum capacity is 10kg.