Varietal Characteristics

The European chestnut tree (Castanea sativa), more commonly known in Italy as castagno, is a deciduous tree belonging to the Fagaceae family.
Chestnut woods are among the most “cultivated” by humans. They are regularly cleared of leaves and shrubs. They are also usually found in easily accessible, almost flat areas.
The presence of chestnut trees since ancient times has meant that some specimens, still existing today, have a particular historical, cultural and landscape value and, as such, are defined as monumental trees.
In particular, this jam uses marroni, a prized variety of chestnuts, distinguished by their larger size, more regular shape and lighter, smoother skin than common chestnuts. They are particularly appreciated for their sweet flavour and soft texture. The harvesting of marroni in Piedmont is a traditional autumn activity that takes place between the end of September and November, depending on weather conditions. The hills and mountains of Piedmont, particularly in the Cuneo area, offer an ideal environment for the growth of high-quality chestnut trees.
Chestnuts are harvested manually from the ground, often with the help of rakes to facilitate the collection of fallen fruit. This practice ensures that the chestnuts are carefully selected, guaranteeing their integrity and quality. Local families and communities often participate together in this activity, which also represents a moment of social gathering.
Once harvested, the chestnuts undergo careful selection and cleaning before being sent on to the various stages of processing.