Gråpære

For this one, we almost need to travel back in time.

Gråpære was recorded as being grown in Norway as early as 1752, making it a true veteran of Norwegian fruit growing. It is not, however, believed to be Norwegian in origin. Its earlier history is far less certain, and even the experts disagree about exactly where the variety originated – or whether the same pear may be known under completely different names elsewhere in Europe.

Some clues point towards France, with a history that may stretch through Turkey and the Caucasus long before Gråpære eventually found its way north to Norwegian orchards.

The fruit is small. In fact, this is the smallest pear we grow. Its skin can also be heavily russeted and rather rustic, so at first glance this probably isn't the pear that is going to win any beauty contests.

But look beyond the exterior – and make your way through the skin – and the reward is waiting inside.

Gråpære has a wonderful texture and an intense, distinctive pear flavour that may well be the most characteristic of all the varieties we grow. It is the kind of pear that makes you wonder why we ever decided that bigger automatically meant better.

Among skilled chefs, Gråpære has long had a reputation as a gourmet pear, particularly for desserts. Yet its modest size is also one of the main reasons why it has almost disappeared from modern commercial production in Norway.

Which is a shame.

Because if pears were measured by flavour rather than centimetres, Gråpære would have very little to worry about.

Outstanding flavour and texture
The smallest pear we grow – but don't let the size fool you
A robust variety requiring little care or crop protection
Moderate yields
Perhaps the most distinctive pear flavour of them all?