A pack of California’s dark-sweet 5 River Islands cherries are all about sharing the story behind the premium fruit. Inspired by the unique growing locale, Stemilt Growers is kicking off the 5 River Islands cherry harvest this week, according to a news release.
“5 River Islands cherries are grown in a special location to help wrap up the California season,” Brianna Shales, Stemilt marketing director, said in the release. “This year’s crop is bringing premium flavor and sizes that will set them apart as the biggest and best cherries California has to offer.”
The California Delta region is home to 5 River Islands cherries where 1,100 square miles link nearly 60 islands forming one of the most unique farming grounds in the country, Shales said.
The give rivers that flow through the delta, including the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers, inspired the name of these cherries, which are picked at the right time to maximize size, firmness and flavor standards, according to the release.
“As a result of its growing conditions, the lapins take up to 10 days longer to ripen to a near-perfect finish,” Shales said. “The cool Delta breeze and evening temperatures are usually 5-10 degrees cooler than the Stockton district, making it an ideal place for 5 River Islands cherries to thrive. They’ll be worth the wait this summer with firm texture, high brix and large sizes.”
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Stemilt anticipates having 5 River Islands cherries available starting in mid-June, with peaks on large and jumbo sizes.
The current 80-degree to 90-degree weather conditions in California are perfect for producing crisp cherries with high brix, Shales said in the release.
“Potentially, this premium variety of cherries from the West Coast will be available for [Fourth] of July promotions,” she said. “Cherries continue to be a huge retail driver in produce departments, and 5 River Islands cherries offer a unique opportunity to story tell and feature a premium pack of fruit.”
