Williams pear

Williams' Pear (also known as Bartlett Pear in the United States and Canada) is one of the most popular pear varieties in the world. Originating from England in the late 18th century, this pear is known for its sweet, juicy flavor and smooth, buttery texture, making it a favorite for both fresh eating and culinary uses.

History

The Williams' pear was first discovered in 1770 by a schoolmaster named John Stair, who sold the propagation rights to a nurseryman, Williams, from whom the pear gets its name. The variety was later introduced to the United States in the early 19th century by Enoch Bartlett. Unaware of the pear's true name, Bartlett propagated the fruit under his own name, which led to the dual naming of this variety.

Description

The Williams' pear is distinguishable by its bell shape, with a broad base tapering to a smaller top. The skin of the pear changes color from green to yellow as it ripens, often with a soft, red blush on one side. The flesh is white, fine-grained, and smooth, with a flavor that is both sweet and slightly acidic.

Cultivation

Williams' pears are harvested in late summer to early autumn. They are unique among pears in that they are picked when mature but not yet ripe, and they ripen off the tree. Proper storage and handling are crucial for the ripening process, which can take anywhere from a few days to a week at room temperature.

Uses

Williams' pears are versatile in their use. They can be eaten fresh, where their juicy sweetness is most appreciated, or used in cooking, where they hold their shape well. They are also popular for canning and making pear juice. In addition, Williams' pears are used in the production of Poire Williams, a clear brandy.

Cultivars

Several cultivars of the Williams' pear exist, including the red Williams' pear, which is similar in taste but has a striking red skin. These cultivars are developed to offer variations in flavor, appearance, and harvest times, catering to different market needs and consumer preferences.

Geographical Distribution

While originating in England, Williams' pears are now grown in many parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and Australia. The climate and soil conditions in these regions are well-suited to the cultivation of Williams' pears, contributing to the global availability of this popular fruit.

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  Williams pear illustration from 1822

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  Bartlett pear illustration from 1921

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  Green and red Williams pears from Savoie

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  Rakija Viljamovka from Croatia