Lucas pears are back this spring, brought to the North American market by Viva Tierra Organic, Inc. This little-known heirloom variety has a dedicated following among pear connoisseurs who look forward to its brief season. The Alexander Lucas, known as Alex Lucas among friends, is a venerable variety which originated in the famed European monastic orchards along the Loire river. It was first described as a distinct variety in the mid 1800's. Today they are grown in the fertile Rio Negro river valley of Argentina, another region famed for its orchards.
"The Alexander Lucas is a superior pear that deserves more attention in the market," said Paul McCaffrey, Sales Representative for Viva Tierra Organic. "They are great to round out a spring pear display at retail with their distinctive appearance, something special to add variety to the standard d'Anjou and Bosc offerings."
The Alexander Lucas is a top quality fresh eating pear. The white flesh is dense, juicy, and buttery-smooth. It is sweet with a wonderfully complex yet delicate flavour and a lovely aroma. The pears are green and distinctly short and rounded, with long sturdy stems.
Addie Pobst, Viva Tierra Organic's Import Coordinator, was blunt. "Alex Lucas is hands down my favourite pear. It simply can't be beat for flavour or texture."
The Alexander Lucas pears will be packed in 10 kg "Viva Tierra Organic" boxes. The volume is limited, with fewer than 45 pallets expected for the season. They will be arriving in the US the last week of April, and will be exclusively available from Viva Tierra Organic.
The Produce Mom, official blog and consumer brand of the Indianapolis Fruit Company, managed by marketing manager Lori Taylor, recently announced the addition of Viva Tierra Organic to her family of trusted produce partners.
"We're thrilled to partner with The Produce Mom. We really admire the work Lori has done to reach out to consumers to promote fresh produce choices and healthy eating, especially for moms and kids,” said Addie Pobst, Organic Integrity & Logistics Coordinator for Viva Tierra.
Viva Tierra and The Produce Mom will work together to provide consumers with resources about how to select, store and serve fresh produce.
