Premium Yamagata Benio cherries see record growth

The latest harvest of Yamagata Benio, Japan’s new premium cherry variety, has just wrapped up, with production reaching about 70 metric tons — more than double last year’s volume.

Originally developed in 1997 by the Yamagata Prefecture Agricultural Research Center, the cherry is a hybrid of Beni-Shuhō and other varieties. After a long registration process, it was officially recognised in 2020, making this year its third commercial season.

Yamagata Benio blooms in late April and is harvested from late June to early July. It’s known for its large size (averaging over 10 grams), bright colour, firm flesh, and juicy texture. With a high sugar content of around 20° Brix and low acidity, the cherry offers a rich, sweet taste and long shelf life. Top-grade cherries, ranging from size 3L to 4L, are marketed as luxury gifts and can sell for up to ¥12,800 (about $87) per kilogram.

Despite challenging weather this season — including cold temperatures during blooming and rain during ripening, which reduced overall cherry yields to near-historic lows (around 8,600–9,700 metric tons) — Yamagata Benio production rose significantly due to expanded cultivation.

Yamagata Prefecture remains Japan’s top cherry-producing region, accounting for roughly 75% of the country’s total output.

source: producereport.com

photo: visityamagata.jp