Carso Marasca Honey

Carso Marasca honey (rešelikov med in Slovenian) comes from the nectar of mahaleb cherry blossoms – also known as the St Lucie cherry (Prunus Mahaleb) – which is a medium-sized tree that can also develop into a shrub. It grows on the carbonic underlayers of the Trieste and Gorizia Karst.
The tree is usually found in Middle Eastern countries, which were taken over by the Ottomans, it is commonly found in Syria and in the countries surrounding the Black Sea, it is also found in Italy, but rarely in the western regions. On the Karst Plateau it has found an ideal microclimate and grows on the edge of broad-leaved woods, pastures and cultivated areas. However, the trees are not so widespread which means that only minimal quantities of honey can be produced.
There is strong evidence about the historical production of Carso Marasca honey on the Karst, as well as of the presence of many mahaleb cherry trees in that area. It is in fact mentioned in a text written by a botanist of the time, prof. Francesco Blasi, printed by the “Cattedra Ambulante di Agricoltura della provincia di Trieste” (1933).
The flowering period is short and lasts only about ten days at most. This happens in early April in the areas closest to the sea and a couple of weeks later in the colder climate inland areas.
The colour of the honey obtained is amber with reddish hues. Its aroma is delicate, and it has bitter taste which is similar to almonds. Thanks to its high fructose content, it remains liquid for a long time.

Season

The honey is available from May, while stocks last.