Carota Novella di Ispica

Protection: PGI
Region: Sicily
Characteristics: Nantes-group hybrids; tender and crunchy
Harvest: February 1–June 15

An early carrot from southeastern Sicily

Novella describes the crop’s early commercial maturity, rather than a single named carrot variety.

Carota Novella di Ispica belongs to the semilong Nantes group and its hybrids. The specification calls for a cylindrical-conical root, tender yet firm and crisp flesh, and a relatively low-fiber core. Its sensory profile includes the recognizable carrot scent and an herbaceous aroma.

Its early cycle is the defining connection with Sicily. Sown in autumn, the crop reaches commercial maturity from February, during a growing cycle that runs through the cooler months. The protected name brings together that timing, the defined southeastern growing area and the product requirements.

Autumn sowing, winter and spring lifting

Seeds are sown in autumn on raised beds prepared after working the soil. The specified harvest begins on February 1 and runs through June 15. Harvesting machinery lifts the roots, removes the leaves and separates much of the soil.

The fresh crop is handled daily through washing, selection, sizing and packing. Production and first conditioning take place in the defined area; further repacking and operations for ready-to-eat products may take place outside it.

The climate behind the early crop

The specification links the product’s early maturity to the growing area in southeastern Sicily, with mild winter temperatures, abundant sunlight and fertile soils. It describes a carrot crop suited to a winter–spring cycle, rather than a generic carrot with an Italian place name.

Sicily

Try it in the kitchen

Keep this tender, crunchy carrot crisp in a salad with sliced celery and a light dressing. Its heart has little fiber.

Recognize the protected name

For a purchase tied to this origin, look for the full name “Carota Novella di Ispica” with the PGI indication. A similar name or variety alone does not establish this protected origin.

Questions worth asking

Does novella mean one particular variety?

No. The specification allows varieties from the semilong Nantes group and their hybrids. The name emphasizes early maturity in the defined growing area.

What is the harvest window?

The specified harvest runs from February 1 to June 15. These dates describe the protected crop’s calendar, not a promise of availability at a particular shop.

Must every packing operation stay in the production area?

Production and first conditioning must take place there. Further repacking and operations to obtain ready-to-eat products may take place outside the defined area.

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Sicily All foods