Abate Fetel

'Abate Fetel' pear
Abate Fetel pear
Genus	Pyrus
Species	Pyrus communis
Cultivar	'Abate Fetel'
Breeder	Fetel
Origin	France, after 1865

The Abate Fetel or Abbé Fetel is a cultivar of the European Pear (Pyrus communis).

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]

References

1. Carrière, E.-A. (1886). "Fruits nouveaux ou peu connus". La Revue Horticole: 236–7.
2. Predieri, 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.