Dolcevita Apples
Estimated Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
Dolcevita apples are a medium to large varietal, averaging 7 to 8 centimeters in diameter, and have a round to conical shape with flat sloping shoulders, a broad middle, and a narrow, sometimes lopsided base. The overall size and appearance of the apples will vary, depending on the specific variety, as multiple cultivars are categorized under the Dolcevita name. The fruit’s skin is semi-thin, smooth, and taut with a faint sheen, and pale lenticels are scattered across the surface. Some fruits also have a soft bloom covering the surface that can be easily removed and wiped away. The skin ripens from green to shades of yellow-green and golden yellow, almost entirely covered in a dark red, crimson, to burgundy blush. The blush is muted and ranges from opaque to translucent. Underneath the surface, the ivory-to-white flesh is fine-grained, firm, and aqueous, with a crisp, crunchy, succulent, and chewy consistency. The flesh also encases a central fibrous core filled with tiny black-brown seeds. Dolcevita apples are edible raw when ripe and release a subtly sweet aroma. The flesh is known for its high sugar content mixed with low acidity, creating a sugary-sweet, fresh, fruity, and floral taste.
Seasons/Availability
Dolcevita apples are available in the late fall through the spring.
Current Facts
Dolcevita apples, botanically classified as Malus domestica, are an Italian brand of multiple apple varieties belonging to the Rosaceae family. The club apple brand was created by Melinda, a consortium of Italian apple growers in the Non and Sole Valleys of Italy, and was launched in 2023. The strategy behind Dolcevita apples was to simplify brand messaging. Members of the Melinda consortium believe that the club apple sector in retail markets is becoming oversaturated with new apples with varying slogans, names, and messaging, resulting in consumers being overwhelmed by choices. Melinda created Dolcevita apples as a brand to represent a selection of the consortium’s sweet-tasting cultivars. There are currently two different varieties marketed collectively under the Dolcevita name, and the brand is positioned to include more if desired. The cultivars sold under Dolcevita share a similar sweet taste, a red to pink-hued skin, and an aromatic nature. Dolcevita apples are promoted as a self-explaining variety in regard to branding, capturing the sweet essence of the fruits, and despite their limited availability, the brand is receiving positive feedback from consumers. Dolcevita apples are naturally sweet and are valued by consumers as a dessert variety, typically served fresh, out of hand.
Nutritional Value
Dolcevita apples have not been extensively studied for their nutritional properties. Like other modern, bi-colored apples, the variety may be a source of fiber to regulate the digestive tract, potassium to balance fluid levels within the bloodstream, and phosphorus to produce genetic material, including DNA and RNA. The apples also provide vitamin A to maintain healthy organ functioning, vitamin C to strengthen the immune system while reducing inflammation, calcium to build strong bones and teeth, vitamin E to protect the cells against free radical damage, copper to develop connective tissues, and other nutrients, including magnesium, zinc, manganese, and vitamin K. The vibrant red hues within the skin indicate the presence of anthocyanins, pigmented compounds with antioxidant-like properties to reduce inflammation.
Applications
Dolcevita apples have a sweet, fruity, and floral taste suited for fresh preparations. The apples are popularly consumed straight out of hand and are savored for their crunchy and juicy nature. Dolcevita apples can be eaten as a stand-alone snack and are promoted as a healthy alternative to sugary desserts. The variety is also sliced and dipped into nut butter, layered on sandwiches, toast, and burgers as a crunchy addition, or served on crostini to complement fresh herbs. Try serving Dolcevita apples on cheese boards to balance the richness of savory cheeses, meats, and nuts. The apples can also be used as an edible topping over parfaits, acai bowls, porridge, overnight oats, pancakes, and waffles. In addition to raw preparations, Dolcevita apples are blended into smoothies and shakes or juiced and mixed into sparkling beverages, fruit punches, and cocktails. While less common, Dolcevita apples are simmered into jams, jellies, and syrups. They are also made into sauces for roasted meat main dishes. Dolcevita apples pair well with herbs such as mint, parsley, and cilantro, nuts including almonds, walnuts, and pecans, and cheeses such as goat, brie, feta, parmesan, pecorino, and gorgonzola. Whole, unwashed Dolcevita apples will keep for a few weeks when stored in a cool, dry, and dark location such as the refrigerator’s crisper drawer or a cellar. It is recommended that the fruits be consumed soon after purchase for the best quality and flavor.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Dolcevita apples were named after a romanticized ideal that was popularized from the 1960 film “La Dolce Vita.” The Italian film was produced by Frederico Fellini and tells the story of a gossip journalist traveling through Rome in the late 1950s. Throughout the film, the main character, actor Marcello Mastroianni, searches for love, happiness, beauty, and the enjoyment of life. After its release, the film was successful throughout Europe and in the United States, winning several prestigious awards. The term “La Dolce Vita,” meaning “The Sweet Life,” quickly rose from the popularity of this film and was used in European and American verbiage to describe something ideal, carefree, or an enjoyable time. This concept was later adopted by the Melinda consortium for their sweet-tasting apples. Melinda chose Dolcevita to represent the sweetness of their brand and evoke the feeling of passion and cherishing life. The brand was also heavily promoted through TV commercials, digital campaigns, bus wrap advertisements, and billboards throughout Italy, capturing the essence of enjoying life through striking images and vibrant colors. In 2023, Dolcevita apples were also showcased at the Tour of the Alps, an international cycling event in Northern Italy. The Melinda logo was featured on the competitor's jerseys, and winners were given Dolcevita apples as a podium award.
Geography/History
Dolcevita apples are native to Italy, and the brand was developed in the early 21st century. The commercial brand was created by Melinda, a consortium of over 4,000 apple growers and industry professionals residing in the Non and Sole Valleys of Italy. Melinda was established in 1989 in Val di Non. Prior to their establishment, the valley and neighboring regions of Trentino were known for their apple production in the foothills of the Dolomites in Northern Italy. Apple cultivation began in Trentino in the late 19th century, and the fruits were sold domestically and exported as a source of income. Production increased throughout the 20th century, peaking in the 1960s and 70s, eventually leading to the formation of the consortium to collectively represent apple growers throughout the region. Much of the history of Dolcevita apples is unknown, but the brand was officially launched in 2023. Melinda generally labels the apple varieties as Dolcevita and does not specify the true varietal names of each fruit sold under the brand name. Today, Dolcevita apples are exclusively grown in Italy and sold through retailers, distributors, and markets throughout Europe.
