Favourable weather produces high quality crop and good volumes
Spain’s Picota cherry producers are forecasting their best season in years after ideal weather conditions set up an outstanding crop.
Industry group Agrupación de Cooperativas del Valle del Jerte (ACVJ) reported that a substantial rise in production is expected for 2026, with quality also described as excellent. The group is forecasting around 16,000-18,000 tonnes of cherries and Picotas, with around 60 per cent of that earmarked for export.
“The overall season looks amazing, with perfect quality and great volumes,” said Mónica Tierno, managing director of ACVJ. “We are expecting a big rise in output and much better quality compared to recent seasons. There are a number of reasons for this – the number of cooling hours during winter, sufficient rainfall, and favourable temperatures at the start of spring. We are anticipating a great season.”
Naturally stalkless Picota cherries have Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, with producers growing in the Jerte Valley region of Spain according to long-established techniques. The cherries have a unique crunchy texture and sweet taste that is highly prized by consumers during the short season between late May and early August.
Despite the challenges currently facing producers of all fruits – specifically the increased costs of transport and packaging as a result of the conflict in the Middle East – Tierno Díaz said growers are optimistic and eager to harvest.
To help mitigate the volatility of energy costs, there has been a drive to install solar panels on farms in the region, as well as investment in efficiency at packhouses. Further new developments are focused on sustainability, with nature-friendly farming techniques high on the agenda.
Furthermore, the industry is constantly looking to evolve the fruit itself. “We have recently signed an agreement with a research centre for the development of varietal improvement for cherries, which consists of adapting the cherry to the particular climatic conditions of the Jerte Valley,” Tierno explained. “We already had this for the Picota cherry, and now we’re doing it for the conventional cherry too.”
The UK is the leading export market for cherries from the Jerte Valley, and this year’s crop will be accompanied by a multi-faceted marketing campaign. It is set to feature shroud units in 100 Morrisons stores, sampling at Tesco head office, consumer and trade advertising, wider PR activity, the annual Pick A Picota week, new recipes from Spanish chef Omar Allibhoy, and other influencer collaborations.
