Get to know clemengold mandarins

28 August 2016 - 02:00 By ClemenGold
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ClemenGold, the soft and juicy mandarins that originated in the fertile valleys of Morocco are grown in SA too

Bright orange juicy nuggets of deliciousness, Clemengold take cake.
Bright orange juicy nuggets of deliciousness, Clemengold take cake.
Image: Clemengold

Clemengold mandarins are bright flaming orange, soft citrus from the fertile valleys of Afourer at the foot of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. About 40 years ago growers planted some regular Murcott citrus seedlings.

Following an on-tree mutation, trees were then planted in isolation and the fortuitous result was virtually seedless fruit with a distinctive red-orange rind.

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Forget about fighting your way through tough skin and pith, ClemenGold is an easy peeler with a surprising centre of lusciously juicy and subtly fragranced seedless flesh with a delectable taste that's as sweet as honey.

Although its appearance and flavour distinguishes ClemenGold from other citrus, its adherence to the highest quality standards further sets it apart.

"We let the fruit ripen naturally in the orchard before it is picked and packed by hand," says Marius du Plessis, ClemenGold CEO. "In order to carry the brand, each fruit must also have a perfect balance of sugar and acid, and strict packaging standards are applied to ensure peak condition from source to shelf."

Whereas South Africans were used to citrus being available only during three months of winter, they can now enjoy the zesty sweetness for some eight to nine months of the year.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Citrus was first mentioned in literature in 2400BC and originated in Southeast Asia.

• The first varieties were bitter.

• Scientists believe the number of citrus fruits today may have originated from as few as four fruits.

• Christopher Columbus brought citrus to the new world on his second voyage there in 1493.

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