Apple
Catalonia – top region of production in Spain
Spain cultivates a wide range of apples, mainly in the northern and northeastern regions, where the cooler, more temperate climate is ideal for these crops. While Spain is not the largest producer of apples and pears in Europe (compared to countries like Poland or Italy), it still plays a significant role, especially with high-quality, regionally protected varieties.
Harvest in Spain usually starts in August until October, then continues storage season from October until May (sometimes June). Spain therefore supplies apples almost year-round combining fresh harvest with storage season.
Most commercial red varieties like Gala, Red Delicious and Fuji, as well as the green/yellow varieties like Golden Delicious and Granny Smith.
Varieties
Royal Gala
Red/yellow colour, sweet, aromatic and crisypu. Good uniformity. One of the most important in Spain, strong demand in EU retail.
Fuji
Red/yellow colour, very sweet. Dense and crunchy texture. Large fruit size, good storage.
Red Delicious
Strong red colour, sweet, mild flavour and soft texture.
Golden Delicious
Yellow colour, balanced sweet-acid taste, medium firmness. Most widely grown in Spain, classic EU variety.
Granny Smith
Strong green colour. Very acidic and crispy. Excellent storage life.
Pink Lady
Important premium export brand. Red/pink colour, balanced sweetness. Originally from Australia
Jazz
Niche premium
Envy
Premium sweetness
Harvest season by Variety
Sizes and packaging
- Sizes: Apples are strictly sized by diameter (mm).
-
Packaging formats
- Usually 13 kg
- or 18 kg box
| Diameter (mm) |
|---|
| 50-55 mm |
| 55-60 mm |
| 60-65 mm |
| 65-70 mm |
| 70-75 mm |
| 75-80 mm |
