The Staffora Valley Pomella is much more than an apple, it is an embrace of our roots, a taste of history and a hymn to agricultural passion.
The Staffora Valley Pomella, famously called ‘genovese‘, is an apple variety with deep roots in the agricultural culture of the Staffora Valley. This fruit has a fascinating history and a unique profile that makes it a real treasure in the local tradition.
This apple is characterised by its flattened shape and small to medium size. Its smooth, waxy skin is green in colour, with a distinctive red jaw when exposed to the sun. But it is in the flesh that this apple reveals its charm. The flesh is white, firm, juicy, sugary and extraordinarily aromatic. This makes it a delight for the palate, a real explosion of flavour in every bite.
The Staffora Valley Pomella is generally harvested between the end of September and October and can be stored in the fruit store until April, making it an authentic winter apple.
The history of this apple is full of fascination. Its name ‘Genovese‘ derives from the caravans of apple growers who, from ancient times, travelled along the ancient salt roads between the slopes of the Apennines, all the way to Liguria. These caravans carried apple varieties that could keep for a long time, perfect for long sea voyages and for being packed in straw. This is precisely why the producers of these apples would come to the Ligurian market to sell them.
Despite its fascinating history and deep connection with the Staffora Valley, the Pomella was at risk of disappearing for many decades. However, thanks to the producers‘ association and its inclusion in 2019 among Lombardy‘s traditional food products, it is experiencing a renaissance. The Pomella Genovese Association, based in Ponte Nizza, is at the forefront in promoting the valorisation of this ancient fruit.
The Staffora Valley Pomella, with its unique history and extraordinary flavour, represents a hidden treasure in the heart of the Staffora Valley. It is an example of how passion for agricultural tradition and the promotion of local products can help preserve the cultural heritage and taste of an area. This apple is destined to continue to delight palates and connect generations with the rich history of the Staffora Valley.
