Comice Pears

Overview

Comice pears are often regarded as one of the finest and most flavorful pear varieties in the world. Known for their smooth, buttery texture and sweet, fragrant flavor, Comice pears are a true delicacy. With their round, squat shape and vibrant green skin that sometimes blushes with red, these pears are often considered the “champagne of pears.” Their tender flesh and delightful sweetness make them perfect for fresh eating, and they’re a popular choice for gourmet fruit baskets, cheeses, and fine culinary dishes. Comice pears have a short shelf life once ripe, but their exceptional flavor and texture make them worth the wait.

History and Origin

Comice pears were first developed in France in the early 19th century, with the name “Comice” believed to be derived from the French word “comice,” meaning “festival” or “gathering,” because they were originally presented as a gift at fairs. These pears quickly gained popularity in Europe for their delicious flavor and were introduced to the United States in the late 1800s. Today, Comice pears are grown in temperate climates around the world, including the United States, where they are particularly favored in Oregon and Washington due to their cool, wet growing conditions.

Key Characteristics

1. Flavor: Comice pears have a rich, sweet flavor that is both juicy and aromatic. Their flavor is often described as being honeyed and floral with hints of vanilla and citrus. The sweetness is balanced by a slight tang, which adds complexity to the overall taste. The soft, buttery flesh of the Comice pear makes it a perfect dessert pear, offering a truly indulgent experience.
2. Appearance: Comice pears have a distinctive, squat, round shape that differentiates them from more elongated pear varieties. The skin is smooth and thin, with a rich green color that can develop a red or russet blush on one side, especially when fully ripe. The surface may also have some slight russeting around the stem or neck. Their attractive appearance, combined with their flavor, makes them popular for gifting and fruit baskets.
3. Size and Shape: Comice pears are typically medium to large in size, ranging from 3 to 5 inches in diameter. They have a plump, rounded body and a short, stout neck. The pears are often more rotund than other pear varieties, with a full, satisfying shape that makes them a visual standout.
4. Skin and Flesh: The skin of a Comice pear is thin, smooth, and easy to eat, with a matte finish that contrasts beautifully with the pear’s bright flesh. The flesh is incredibly tender, juicy, and buttery, often melting in the mouth. The flesh is pale white or cream-colored and has a fine-grained, delicate texture. The pears are typically eaten when they are fully ripe, as their flavor and texture improve significantly once they soften.
5. Harvest Time: Comice pears are typically harvested in September and October.  They are usually picked when still firm but mature, as they ripen quickly once harvested. Comice pears ripen off the tree, making it important to allow them to soften at room temperature. They are best enjoyed when they give slightly to gentle pressure near the stem, indicating that the flesh is tender and juicy. Comice pears do not have a long shelf life and should be eaten within a few days of ripening. To store unripe pears, they can be placed in a cool, dry location to slow down the ripening process. Once ripe, Comice pears can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days to extend their freshness, but they are best enjoyed soon after ripening for optimal texture and flavor.

Uses