Dulcis kicks off new season with an estimated crop of 1,800 tonnes

Production of Dulcis is forecast to reach 1,800 tonnes this season, with growers reporting fruit of excellent quality with a high Brix content thanks to favourable climatic conditions.

Harvesting of the first volumes of the new Italian green kiwifruit – which ripens approximately two weeks earlier than Hayward – has already been completed in Emilia-Romagna and is now underway in other regions. In all there are around 360ha planted for the current season, heralding significant volume growth compared to the previous year.

Dulcis will be available at key retailers from the first week of November. “Following the excellent reception it received last year in Italy, the goal for the new season is also to expand its presence in Europe, with the first trial shipments destined for Germany, Spain, Portugal, and the UK,” the Dulcis Kiwifruit Company said.

“In terms of production, the variety continues to demonstrate its resistance and adaptability to climate change, guaranteeing high yields and consistent quality even in environments characterised by hot summers and milder winters. Calabria, in particular, stands out as a key new growing area, becoming one of the leading producing regions in just a few years, alongside Emilia-Romagna, Lazio, and Veneto.”

According to Mirco Montefiori, president of the Dulcis Kiwifruit Company, “The success of Dulcis is measured by our relationship with consumers, who last year showed incredible enthusiasm for the fruit and appreciated its natural sweetness and balanced texture.

“With the new season underway, our goal is to strengthen this connection, bringing to market a product that meets the high quality standards and distinctive characteristics that set Dulcis apart from other kiwifruit varieties.”

Dulcis was developed through a collaboration between Agrintesa-Alegra, Apofruit Italia, Orogel Fresco, and New Plant of Forlì, along with the University of Udine and the University of Bologna.