Maçã Bravo de Esmolfe (Esmolfe apple)
DOP Maçã Bravo de Esmolfe is a Portuguese apple cultivated from the variety Malus domestica Boекh.
Geographical area: The apples are grown in the districts of Coimbra, Viseu, Guarda and Castelo Branco.
Evidence: Established through use, particularly due to the extensive acceptance and reputation which the apple has gained on the national market
Method of production: These apple trees traditionally grow at an altitude of 350 to 550 m above sea level. The orchards cover 140 hectares and there are 800 to 1,599 trees in the old orchards and 400 in the newly planted ones. This tree produces fruit very slowly, usually once every two years. Late blossoming aids the ripening of the fruit in this particular climate. The apples are usually gathered in the middle of September.
Link: In this region the soils possess specific characteristics which, together with the conditions of altitude, sun exposure and climate, give this apple unique and distinctive organoleptic characteristics.
Gastronomy: DOP Maçã Bravo de Esmolfe apples can be kept for several months if stored at a temperature of 2°C-4°C. These apples are usually eaten as dessert at the end of meals but locally they are also used to perfume wardrobes, drawers and chests.
Reference: The European Commission