The Queen of Cherries

Spanish Picota cherries are unique to the Jerte Valley and protected by a denomination of origin (DO) status – which means they can’t be grown anywhere else. They are also the only variety that is detached from the tree without a stalk, which remains on the branches during the harvesting.

The DO certificate verifies the fruit has been grown, harvested and packed under rigorous quality control procedures, which includes hand-picking for optimum ripeness.

Once the cherries have been hand-picked – they are sorted into chestnut baskets at the base of the trees, as the farmers select only the best ones to be sold and eaten. The Picota cherries are then packaged in the Jerte Valley and shipped off to their final destinations.

Picota is an exclusive product that is distinguished by its flavour and sweetness. They are dark red in colour and have a more fleshy, crunchy texture than other cherries. The variety is only available in UK supermarkets from this week until the beginning of August.

Almost two million Picota cherry trees sweep the Jerte Valley. Following a century-long family custom, the cherries are grown in the traditional way on terraces carved out of the high mountainsides, among crystal-clear springs and pure air. The unique environment, with a privileged microclimate is what helps to produce such a high quality product.

Not only are Picota cherries delicious, they also have many health benefits. As a 100% natural product, they are extremely nutritious containing flavonoids, vitamins and powerful antioxidants.

Eaten fresh on their own, or in many sweet and savoury dishes, Picota cherries are a delicious summertime treat – so be sure to catch them while you can!

The cherries from Jerte Valley have many nutritional benefits:

For stress and insomnia: they contain high levels of tryptophan, serotonin and melatonin, according to the University of Extremadura. These elements make them an effective enhancer of the immune system and assist with regulating the mood and sleep cycle.

Anti aging: thanks to their rich content in flavonoids, as well as in vitamins A and C, they are also a powerful antioxidant, which helps fight cell aging.

Diuretics and depuratives: their content in oligoelements and potassium gives cherries an important diuretic and depurative power. They are effective in the elimination of liquids and help to reduce the sensation of hunger.

Preventing anemia: thanks to their high mineral content, cherries are a food that helps prevent various types of anemia.

Helping the heart: for their low-fat content, their antioxidant effect, their anti-inflammatory power and their capacity to improve cholesterol levels.

Vitamins for skin and hair: Jerte Picota cherries also help to fix the water in the cells of the body due to the antioxidant elements and mineral salts they contain. Therefore, these cherries are a moisturising supplement for skin and hair. Also, they protect us from free radicals, providing luminosity to the skin. And, finally, they are an important source of vitamins, C, B and A.

Find out more Jerte Picota Cherries