Originally of France, it was obtained by the abbot Fetel – hence the name – who started working on it in 1865, when he was the priest of Chessy, Rhône, using several local cultivars as a starting point. Fetel was later transferred to Charentay, where he continued his hybridisations, ultimately obtaining the 'Abate Fetel' after a few years.[1]
Nowadays, the 'Abate Fetel' pear is the most produced and exported pear cultivar in Italy. It is mostly cultivated in the Emilia-Romagna region, which is a Protected Geographical Indication for this cultivar. Another important producer country is Argentina.[2]
In Italy, the 'Abate Fetel' is usually harvested in September; it maintains its quality for up to 23 weeks of cold storage. A characteristic feature is its elongated shape, which is easily recognizable by consumers.[2]
^ abPredieri, Stefano; Gatti, Edoardo (2009). "Effects of cold storage and shelf-life on sensory quality and consumer acceptance of 'Abate Fetel' pears". Postharvest Biology and Technology. 51 (3): 342–8. doi:10.1016/j.postharvbio.2008.09.006.
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