Harvest Gold is a specialty stone fruit grown in California by Family Tree Farms®. Although it may commercially be referred to as a plum, the grower officially lists Harvest Gold within its Plumcot program—plum-apricot hybrids displaying predominantly plum characteristics complemented by apricot qualities. Harvest Gold is distinguished by its attractive golden skin with a touch of blush, crisp bite, natural sweetness and juicy character.
Organoleptic Properties
Round to slightly oval fruit with smooth green-gold to golden-yellow skin that may develop a delicate blush as maturity progresses. Firm and juicy flesh with an initially crisp bite. Naturally sweet, clean and refreshing flavor with the juicy, complex fruit character associated with plumcots. Family Tree Farms specifically describes Harvest Gold as having golden skin with a touch of blush, a crisp and refreshing bite, and naturally sweet, juicy flavor.
Suggested Uses
Excellent for fresh consumption and convenient individual snacking due to its clamshell presentation. Also suitable for fruit platters, salads, breakfast applications, yogurt, bowls, bakery, tarts, compotes, sauces, desserts and cheese pairings. Its distinctive golden appearance provides attractive color contrast for buffets, catering, hotels, restaurants and premium fruit displays.
Format
1 lb clamshells. Commercial size #72's.
Storage and Handling
To maintain firmness and postharvest quality, preferably refrigerate at approximately 0–2 °C under high relative humidity, ideally around 90–95%. For a softer texture and greater aromatic development, fruit may be temporarily held at room temperature. Family Tree Farms recommends selecting plumcots that are firm with a slight give; fruit may be held on the counter for several days for a softer, juicier texture or refrigerated to maintain a cold, crisp eating experience.
Quality and Selection Criteria
Fresh, whole, firm and properly developed fruit displaying its characteristic golden coloration and possible surface blush. Select fruit with good turgidity and intact skin, free from decay, open wounds, severe bruising, excessive dehydration or defects affecting commercial quality. A slight yield to gentle pressure is appropriate as the fruit approaches eating maturity.
Origin
California, United States.
Harvest Gold is part of the extensive Family Tree Farms® plumcot program. Headquartered in Reedley, Central California, Family Tree Farms is operated by three generations of farmers and places particular emphasis on flavor, texture and varietal selection. The company reports evaluating more than 1,000 varieties across approximately ten acres dedicated to research and trials, selecting only a small proportion for commercial production. Its vertically integrated operations encompass growing, packing, shipping and marketing to maintain greater control over fruit quality. Within its specialty stone-fruit portfolio, Harvest Gold stands out for its combination of golden appearance, crisp texture, juiciness and natural sweetness.
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