Description: The “Pêssego da Cova da Beira PGI” is a peach belonging to the Prunus pérsica Sieb. and Zucc. species, in several varieties. It has a very juicy yellow flesh, and a flavor that will satisfy the most demanding palate.
Production method: The production of the fruit results from the different regional varieties of peach trees existing in the region: "Dixired", "Red Top", "J.H.Hale", "Merril Franciscan", "Black", "Rubidoux", "Carnival" and "Halloween" of half slope of granite origin and well drained.
Associated with soils with good suitability, and climate influenced by its position between the mountains of Serra da Gardunha, Estrela and Malcata, which provides a significant amount of cold, a mild spring and protection against the Atlantic winds, are meeting the conditions for the production of the Pêssego da Cova da Beira PGI, differentiating it from others obtained in other regions.
Special features: The various varieties of Pêssego da Cova da Beira PGI peaches are produced in area with an unique climate: Cova da Beira, crossed by the river Zêzere and lying between the Serra da Gardunha and the Serra da Estrela mountains which protect the trees from the strong Atlantic winds.
Each variety varies in colour and pigmentation depending on the amount of sugar they contain, which must always be greater than 7%.
Production area: All the parishes of the counties of Fundão, Covilhã, Manteigas and Belmonte, in the district of Castelo Branco.
History: Having achived a great success with the growing of cherries in this region the local people began growing peaches, an extremely tasty and juice variety of peach. For this reason, many years ago, yellow flesh peaches were introduced and soon became in great demand.
Cultivated in the region for many years is recognized nationally and internationally as a peach with specific characteristics.
Product specification (pdf)
Producer group
Cooperativa Agrícola dos Fruticultores da Cova da Beira, C. R. L.
Control and certification body
Kiwa Sativa – Unipessoal, Lda.
Control plan
Control plan (pdf)
Publication in EU official journal
Regulamento (CE) n.º 1107/96 da Comissão de 12.06.1996 – L 148 de 21.06.1996