Peaches In Austria: What's In A Name?

Peaches are called Weingartenpfirsich in Austria. They are vineyard peaches that grow from seeds in the vineyards of western Austria, where they ripen at the same time as grapes. Although these peaches are small and rather dry, they are preferred over big, juicy peaches for cooking, especially for making jam.

Peach trees in Austria

Peach trees, or *Prunus persica*, are native to China but can be found in many parts of the world today, including Austria. The peach tree is a deciduous tree or tree-like shrub that rarely grows taller than 10 meters (33 ft) and typically reaches a height of 3 meters (10 ft).

Peach trees are cultivated for their fruit, as well as their ornamental value. The fruit can be eaten fresh, cooked, or canned, and the tree itself is considered handsome, with springtime blooms, making it a popular addition to gardens. The specific name *persica* refers to the widespread cultivation of the tree in Persia (modern-day Iran) before it was transplanted to Europe and later to the Americas.

Peach trees have a relatively short lifespan, usually not exceeding twenty years. However, the peach fruit is regarded as a symbol of longevity in several East Asian cultures. The growth period of the fruit follows a double-sigmoid growth curve, with a quick beginning period, followed by a resting period, and then a second rapid growth period.

Peach trees are vulnerable to certain pests and diseases, such as the European earwig and peach leaf curl, which is a fungal disease common in climates with significant winter rainfall. They grow best in dry, continental, or temperate climates and require well-drained soils.

In Austria, peach trees can be found in the vineyards of western Austria, where the peaches are known as *Weingartenpfirsich* or vineyard peaches. These peaches are small and rather dry, but they are preferred for cooking, especially for making jam.

Culinary uses of peaches in Austria

In Austria, peaches are called "Weingartenpfirsich", or "vineyard peaches" in English. These peaches grow from seeds in the vineyards of western Austria, and they are usually small and dry. Despite being less juicy than their bigger counterparts, these peaches are preferred for cooking, especially for making jam.

Jam

Jam is one of the most common culinary uses of peaches in Austria. The small, dry peaches from western Austria are particularly well-suited for this purpose. Peach jam can be enjoyed on toast, biscuits, or scones, and it can also be used as a filling for cakes and pastries.

Snacks

Peaches are a popular snack for the harvesters in Austrian vineyards. The peaches are conveniently available at the same time as the grapes, providing a sweet and nutritious break for the workers.

Desserts

Peaches are also used in various desserts in Austria. They are often paired with other fruits, such as grapes, to create sweet dishes. Peach cobblers, pies, and crisps are classic dessert options that showcase the rich flavor of ripe peaches.

Beverages

Fresh or frozen peaches are commonly blended into smoothies or pureed to make homemade fruit juices and cocktails. Peach-infused water or iced tea is a refreshing way to enjoy the natural sweetness of peaches while staying hydrated.

Preservation

Austrians also preserve their summer peaches to enjoy them throughout the year. Homemade peach jams, jellies, and preserves are popular, and they can be used in various ways, such as spreading them on toast or adding them to yogurt or oatmeal.

Austrian exports of peaches

In Austria, peaches are called Weingartenpfirsich, or "vineyard peaches" in English. These peaches are grown from seed in the vineyards of western Austria, where they ripen at the same time as grapes. While they are small and dry, they are preferred for cooking, especially for making jam.

Austria's exports of peaches are categorised as fresh peaches, including nectarines (HS code 080930) and peaches, including nectarines, that are prepared or preserved and may contain added sugar or other sweetening matter or spirit (HS code 200870). In 2019, Austria exported 5,946 tonnes of peaches, bringing in US$8.74 million. In 2020, the volume of peaches exported by Austria increased to 6,605 tonnes. The demand for Austrian peaches surged in 2019, recording a change of 16.178% compared to 2018.

Austria's leading export markets for peaches are Slovenia, Germany, Italy, Slovakia, and Hungary. In 2019, Austria was a net importer of peaches, with an annual growth in value of 18% between 2015 and 2019, while the annual growth in quantity during the same period was -12%. In 2019, Austria imported 38,869 tonnes of peaches and produced 5,020 tonnes.

History of peaches in Austria

Peaches have a long history in Austria, where they are known as Weinbergpfirsich, or 'vineyard peaches'. They are grown from seed in the vineyards of western Austria, where they ripen at the same time as the grapes, providing a handy snack for the harvesters. Although these peaches are small and rather dry, they are preferred over big, juicy peaches for cooking, especially for jam.

The peaches are also used to make Kletzenbrot, a yeast bread containing nuts, spices, rye flour and dried fruit. This is traditionally eaten at Christmastime.

Types of Austrian peaches

Peaches are a popular fruit in Austria, and the country exported nearly 6,000 tonnes of them in 2020. While I could not find a wide variety of peaches grown in Austria, there are a few types that are unique to the country or the region.

Weingartenpfirsich (Vineyard Peach)

These peaches grow from seed in the vineyards of western Austria and are a handy snack for harvesters. They are usually ripe at the same time as the grapes. Although these peaches are small and rather dry, they are preferred for cooking, especially for making jam.

Staud's White Peach

This variety of peach is made from the best Eastern Styrian peaches. Only selected peaches from the foothills of Eastern Styria are used to make this jam.

Flat peaches (Pan-tao)

Flat peaches, or pan-tao, are a type of peach that has a flattened shape, in contrast to ordinary near-spherical peaches. While I could not find specific information on whether this type of peach is grown in Austria, they are grown in Europe, so it is possible that they are also cultivated in Austrian orchards.

Nectarines

Nectarines are often considered a different fruit from peaches, but they belong to the same species. They have a smooth skin and are produced due to a recessive allele. While I could not find specific information on whether nectarines are grown in Austria, they are cultivated in Europe, so it is likely that they are also grown in Austrian orchards.

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