Albion strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) grown in Baja California, Mexico, and marketed under the Californie® brand. A day-neutral cultivar developed by the University of California, Albion is recognized for producing large, firm berries with an attractive conical shape. Its combination of sweetness, aroma, balanced acidity and good firmness makes it particularly suitable for fresh consumption and professional foodservice applications.
Organoleptic Properties
Medium to large berries with a conical to slightly elongated and generally uniform shape. Bright, deep-red exterior with a fresh green calyx. Firm, fleshy, red to light-red interior with good juiciness. Fresh aroma characteristic of ripe strawberries. Predominantly sweet and aromatic flavor complemented by pleasant acidity for a balanced, refreshing finish.
Suggested Uses
Ideal for fresh consumption, fruit platters, bakery, pastry, tarts, cheesecakes, chocolate preparations, yogurt, oatmeal, bowls, salads, smoothies, beverages, cocktails, ice cream, preserves and culinary garnishes. Its firmness makes it particularly suitable for hotels, restaurants, catering, buffets and foodservice.
Format
C-CTN carton box with an approximate weight of ±5 Kg. Fruit selected for freshness, firmness, color, integrity and commercial quality.
Storage and Handling
Preferably store refrigerated between 0 and 2 °C with approximately 90–95% relative humidity. Maintain the cold chain and prevent condensation or free moisture from accumulating on the fruit. Because strawberries are highly perishable, minimize handling and wash only immediately before consumption or processing.
Quality and Selection Criteria
Fresh, whole and firm berries with good turgidity, characteristic red coloration and a fresh green calyx. Select fruit free from mold, decay, fermentation, severe bruising, dehydration or significant mechanical damage. Flesh should retain good firmness, with a clean, fresh and characteristic strawberry aroma.
Origin
Baja California, Mexico.
Albion was developed by the University of California strawberry breeding program from a Diamante × Cal 94.16-1 cross made in 1997 and selected in 1998. As a day-neutral cultivar, it can maintain extended flowering and production cycles under suitable growing conditions. Albion gained commercial recognition for combining large, attractive berries, high firmness, strong postharvest performance and a sweet, aromatic flavor profile, characteristics particularly valuable for premium fresh-fruit marketing.
