"My grandfather planted our first citrus grove with a vision in mind and a strong bond with the land, thereby starting what is now the family business. Then, in the 1960s, my father, Leonardo Fedele, started a collaboration with Centro Sperimentale di Agrumicoltura di Acireale (CT). From this synergy, and thanks to a spontaneous genetic mutation, the 'Fedele' clementine variety was born, which immediately stood out due to its organoleptic qualities," recalls entrepreneur Giuseppe Fedele, currently the third generation running the business, as he talks about the history of his family and the experience of the Fedele farm, which was founded in the 1950s in Massafra (Taranto).
© Azienda Agricola Fedele
"Our clementines boast a sweet and intense taste with a juicy, seedless pulp, a thin and fragrant peel that is easy to peel, and a bright orange colour that makes them visually very attractive. Their early ripening is also a factor that makes them appreciated in the markets, providing real advantages when it comes to marketing."
Despite the introduction of numerous new varieties in the following decades, 'Fedele' maintains a constant level of quality and commercial appreciation.
"In recent years, also thanks to a renewed interest in native and authentic cultivars, Fedele clementines are experiencing a revival, regaining space and prestige in national and international markets as a symbol of typicality, authenticity, and territorial identity. The diffusion of Fedele brings benefits not only to the producer company, but to the entire citrus fruit sector in the Ionian area."
 © Azienda Agricola Fedele |  © Azienda Agricola Fedele |
"In recent years, we have distributed the scions free of charge, enabling many local farmers to graft their citrus groves with a high-quality variety, capable of excelling on the market in terms of appearance, flavour, and production reliability, thereby generating important economic returns. The De.C.O. (Denominazione Comunale di Origine) recognition has confirmed the deep link with the Massafra area and its historical relevance. Currently, the variety also benefits from the 'Clementine del Golfo di Taranto' PGI mark, which certifies its geographical origin, authenticity, and high quality according to European standards."
Giuseppe Fedele continues the business with the same dedication inherited from his grandfather and father, but with a future-oriented perspective. "I have chosen to integrate traditional farming practices with innovative technologies and a sustainable approach to cultivation, using biocompatible fertilisers and following targeted agronomic plans, collaborating with leading companies in the sector to guarantee a healthy, environmentally friendly and competitive product."
© Azienda Agricola FedelePictured right, Leonardo Fedele, variety breeder.
Today, the company cultivates over 50 hectares, around 12 of which are dedicated exclusively to the Fedele variety, distributed in the territories of Massafra, Palagiano, and Ginosa, in the heart of Apulian citrus cultivation. Other prized varieties of clementines and oranges are cultivated alongside 'Fedele', making it possible to cover an extended production range and ensure a continuous presence on the markets, while maintaining high quality standards. The productions are GlobalGAP certified.
"The Fedele farm is much more than a business: it is my identity, my daily commitment, the living testimony of a family tradition that continues to renew itself. I will continue to cultivate my land with respect, to value authentic agricultural work and to offer consumers clementines that encapsulate the history, taste, and soul of my land."
For more information:
Azienda Agricola Fedele
+39 333 973 3205