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The “Sbergia”, or “Smergia”, is a variety of nectarine peach grown only in the Niceto Valley, and in particular in the municipalities of Monforte San Giorgio, San Pier Nuceto, and Torregrotta. Historical documents and records dating back to the 1500s mention this variety, as well as the 1516 “De agricultura opusculum ” by Antonino Venuti. Some people also calls this peach variety “Sbergia Merendella”.

According to the tradition, it was introduced in Sicily by the Arabs, who settled here in 965. The term “Sbergia” actually comes from the Arabic “al-berchiga”, later transformed into the French “alberges”, under the Angevin domination.

The “Sbergia” walnut peach is harvested between July and August: it has a smooth, light yellow skin suffused with red-pink, white, fragrant and sweet pulp. However, the fruits are not very long-lasting and the plants need some serious protection against parasites, as well as thorough pruning and support for their branches.

Currently, this peach variety is produced on an area between 173 and 223 acres, with an average annual production of about 8 thousand tons; it is marketed only in the provinces of Messina, Catania, Trapani, and Reggio Calabria.

This post is also available in: Italiano (Italian)