A shiny crimson-red, this delicious pear's white juicy soft flesh is moist and sweet.

Nutritional Value

Pears provide a source of carbohydrates, vitamin C, some protein, calcium and fiber. One medium pear contains about 100 calories.

Serving Ideas

Serve as a delicious topping for tarts. Poach in syrup. Nutmeg, ginger, vanilla, lemon, cinnamon, almonds, pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts and blue cheese enhance their flavor. Drizzle with off-dry, slightly sweet and late harvest white wines. To store, ripen at room temperature. Refrigerate ripe fruit for only a day or two.

Ethnic/Cultural Info

Pre-Christian Romans, ancient Phoenicians and Jews especially valued pears and grew many improved varieties. The rapid increase in the quality and numbers was primarily the work of breeders in Belgium and France at the end of the eighteenth century, who are credited with most modern varieties.

Geography/History

More than three thousand pear varieties are known in the world but only a few are commercially produced worldwide with different pears growing in different regions. In the United States, California, Oregon and Washington State are major producers supplying at least ninety-five percent of the national pear crop.

Seasons/Availability

Red crimson pears are available mid summer until mid winter.