Starkrimson
Available as:
Stemilt & Artisan Organics
Facts of Interest: Discovered in Missouri in the early 1950’s as a branch of red pears on a tree that typically produced green pears, Starkrimson originated as a spontaneous mutation or “sport” variety. By 1956, this crimson-colored pear had been patented and propagated by Stark Brothers Nursery. Today, it is grown in abundance across the Northwest and is one of the first varieties off the tree in August.
Starkrimson pears have a juicy and sweet flavor profile with a floral essence. The striking red color makes it a perfect selection for both salads and fresh eating. It is also considered a good pair for strong cheeses, such as blue and goat cheese.
To tell if this particular pear is ripe, look for the color to turn from deep crimson to bright crimson red. The skin will also become more thin and delicate when ripe.
Characteristics
Appearance:
Crimson red in color, which brightens as it ripens
Texture & Firmness:
Moist and juicy with a smooth texture
Internal Character:
Pale off-white flesh
Flavor:
Juicy and sweet with a floral essence
Shape:
Thick, stocky stem with the neck appearing to grow up and around it
Size:
Medium to large
Uses:
Excellent for fresh eating and salads
Artisan Organics is Stemilt’s banner for organic tree fruits. This label adorns all packaging and price look-up (PLU) stickers on Stemilt’s organic apples, pears, cherries and stone fruits.
Stemilt began major investments in organic tree fruit production back in 1989. At the time, farming organically on a large-scale was unheard of, since there were so few organic applications available. Despite the challenges, Stemilt founder Tom Mathison knew there was potential for organics in the marketplace and continued preparing Stemilt for future growth.
Because of Tom’s foresight, Stemilt gradually increased its organic presence, and today, is one of the nation’s leading shippers of organic tree fruits. Try Artisan Organics for a unique flavor experience that only natural farming methods can deliver!
Check out our Organic Leader page to learn more about what makes Stemilt a standout in the organic field!
Check out our Organic Leader page to learn more about what makes Stemilt a standout in the organic field!
Stemilt grows pears in Washington’s Wenatchee River Valley, an area known worldwide for its fertile soil and cool climate. Here, snow-capped, Alpine mountains rise behind rolling hills blanketed with pear orchards. Cooler temperatures and high-quality air drainage combine to create the premium quality of Stemilt’s numerous delectable pear varieties.
Pears are unique, in that, they are harvested at full maturity, but still may not be perfectly ripe when you take them home from the store. Stemilt believes that consumers shouldn’t have to wait to enjoy their pears. Our conditioning program, called RipeRite™, gets the ripening process started so you have ready-to-eat pears every time you shop.