Maçã Bravo de Esmolfe

Description: The Maçã Bravo de Esmolfe PDO is an apple from the Malus domestica Borkh. species. These apples are medium to small in size and are elliptical and conical in shape. They have a whitish skin, sometimes with some reddish areas. Maçã Bravo de Esmolfe PDO is well known by its pleasant aroma and soft white, juicy, sweet flesh with good taste qualities.

Production method: Maçã Bravo de Esmolfe PDO apple trees traditionally grow at an altitude of 350 to 550 m. The late blossoming observed in this variety allows an excellent adaptation to the climate of the production region, where the risks of late frost are high. This tree produces fruit very slowly, usually once every two years. Apples are harvested in middle September.

Special features: This apple has a very distinctive perfume and can be stored for a considerable period of time. Being an autochthonous apple variety there is a perfect integration in the soil and climate conditions of the region.

Production area: Maçã Bravo de Esmolfe PDO apples are grown in the districts of Coimbra, Viseu, Guarda and Castelo Branco.

History: The Maçã Bravo de Esmolfe PDO apple has been known since the 18th century and originated in the village of Esmolfe in Penalva do Castelo. It is said that this apple originally grew here naturally and spontaneously and was called Bravo for this very reason. It was soon used for grafting and thrived throughout the area.

Product specification (pdf)

Geographical area

Producer group
FELBA - Centro de Valorização dos Frutos e Legumes da Beira Alta

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 – L 148 de 21.06.1996

Publication in the Portuguese official journal
Aviso n.º 12517/2003, de 22 de novembro
Despacho n.º 17005/2003, de 3 de setembro
Despacho n.º 58/94, de 15 de fevereiro