Why Ratnagiri Mangoes are the Best

When we hear the word, mangoes, the first thing that pops into our mind is an oval, yellow fruit bursting with sweetness and flavour. Moreover, chances are that this mango that you imagine is the Ratnagiri mango, or alphonso mango. The fruit from this region is plump and full of the signature mango aroma and taste. If you see this in the market near you, it is customary for you to add it to your cart. Now this whole debate about which mangoes are the best can go on for days. However, follow along the blog for a few reasons that we think that these Alphonso mangoes from Ratnagiri stand apart from the rest.

The History of Ratnagiri (Alphonso) Mangoes

The exact history of Ratnagiri mangoes is quite debated. That said, one thing that is generally agreed on is that the Portuguese played a crucial role in introducing the first Alphonso mangoes to the global market. Now, there are two versions of this as well. Some state that the first type of alphonso mango seeds was brought with them when the Portuguese first set up a colony in the area. This can be dated around the 16th century. 

Another theory suggests that the Portuguese needed to ship the existing mangoes abroad, and the best way they thought to do so was by making them more susceptible to travel and hence, plumper. This could have led to new grafting techniques, which gave birth to the first Ratnagiri alphonso mango.

Once harvested, these mangoes that were exported around the world came to be known as Alphonso mangoes. They were named so after the Portuguese viceroy, Alfonso de Albuquerque.

Over the years, the cultivation of these Ratnagiri mangoes has grown exponentially.  They have adapted to the humid and coastal climate of Ratnagiri, Konkan Coast. The local farmers have painstakingly mastered these grafting techniques to ensure that each Ratnagiri alphonso tree produces fruits of the highest quality.

Regionally, these mangoes are called ‘hapus’. They are also affectionately termed the king of fruits and have gained quite a reputation for their distinct aroma and invigorating taste. They are one of the most revered fruits in all of India and are a sought-after delicacy, not only in the country but also in international markets.

The Ratnagiri Difference: What Makes These Mangoes the Best?

We are familiar with the legacy of the Ratnagiri Alphonso mango. Now, let's venture into some features that set the fruit apart from the rest:

1. Irreplaceable taste

As soon as summer hits, the first thing you crave is a plate of sliced, lush mangoes. The sweet, rich flavours of the fruit hold a hint of acidity. That, while being prevalent, isn’t overbearing at all. Moreover, its soft, creamy texture makes Alphonso mango from Ratnagiri an instant hit among adults as well as kids. Such factors will have you finishing at least two mangoes in one sitting. 

2. Distinctive Appearance

You may have seen a lot of mangoes at the local mart. However, Ratnagiri mangoes simply stand out. They have a deep yellow colour with traces of orange at the top, if any. When you slice into a mango, you'll notice that its flesh is vibrant yellow-orange. This is a great indicator of its ripeness and high quality. The visual appeal of the fruit is one of the reasons it is heavily included in several culinary delicacies as well as deserts.

3. Addicting Aroma

Take it that you have acquired a box of Alfonso mangoes and have it lying around your home for a few days. Quickly, you will notice that the entire house will have seeped in the sweet scent of Ratnagiri mangoes. It is distinct and potent. Particularly, the aroma can be categorised as floral with fruity notes. This, when paired with the taste, creates a holistic sensory experience.

4. Cultivation quotient

As discussed before, a lot of effort goes into cultivating these Ratnagiri Alphonso mangoes. The addictingly sweet fruit has been mastered and perfected over several generations of farmers. The technique that they utilise requires consistent effort and quality. These factors, along with other stable environmental aspects, produce a charming fruit that is sold around the world.

When to Buy the Best Mangoes in Ratnagiri?

Mangoes are a summer fruit. So, by the time the season rolls around, the market will be flooded with the Ratnagiri Alphonso. However, once the season takes a leave, you may always get a hold of . B Natural Mango beverage. This will deliver you the taste of your favourite mangoes in a cup.

Through this exciting journey of the aromatic Alphonso mangoes in Ratnagiri, we learn this fruit promises an explosion of flavour with every bite. This makes it irreplaceable in the people's eyes. Alphonso mangoes aren’t just a fruit; it is an experience that will have your palate on hold until you've savoured the very last bite. So the next time you are craving mangoes, simply get a Ratnagiri Alphonso; you will not be disappointed at all!