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We are Sicilian farmers and this is our family and local history: Tarocco oranges and their unbreakable bond with Francofonte.
A legend is born in the countryside of Francofonte
When we talk about blood oranges, our thoughts turn to the Plain of Catania and the villages that surround it. Here, between Francofonte, Lentini and Carlentini, the Tarocco variety took shape between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as a spontaneous mutation of existing red-fleshed oranges. From the rows of trees and the farmers’ selections, a cultivar was born that conquered the market with its aroma, juiciness and balance between sweetness and acidity.
Local memory: the Porta Chiusa district
The oral tradition of Francofonte’s farmers tells us that the first exceptionally pigmented plants were observed in the countryside now known as the Porta Chiusa district. It is a story of the land – not always documented on paper – but one that tells a simple agronomic truth: where the microclimate and soil are ideal, the best fruits are grown.
Why here: Etna, soil and temperature changes
The secret of the Tarocco lies in the microclimate of Etna. In winter, bright days and cold nights generate a marked temperature change, a condition that activates the synthesis of anthocyanins, the red pigments in the pulp (and partly in the skin) with a marked antioxidant action. The loose, well-drained volcanic soil concentrates aromas and sugars, while the breezes promote health and fragrance. This is why the Etna area is the home of choice for blood oranges.
Seasonal note: at the beginning of the harvest, when the nights are not yet cold enough, the pulp may be less red. However, the flavour remains full and typical; the pigmentation intensifies as winter progresses.
From mutation to selection: how the Tarocco was born (and grew)
• Late 19th century – early 20th century: fruits with abnormal red pigmentation are observed; farmers begin selection to stabilise the characteristic.
• 1920s–1930s: agricultural texts and technical reports describe the area and cultivation practices dedicated to the Tarocco.
• Spread: the Tarocco orange becomes established in the Francofonte–Lentini–Carlentini area and then in the rest of the Catania Plain.
From the post-war period to the present day, nurseries have selected clones and biotypes with different ripening times, degrees of pigmentation and shelf life, responding to the needs of producers and markets.
The “lines” of Tarocco: clones and biotypes that have made history
• Tarocco Gallo – historically linked to Francofonte; appreciated for its sweet-sour balance and commercial versatility.
• Tarocco Rosso (selections with intense pigmentation) – known for the ruby colour of its flesh when fully ripe.
• Tarocco Sant’Alfio M509 – late season, good fruit retention on the tree.
• Tarocco Ippolito – a modern selection in high demand for its colour and organoleptic profile.
The story is not over: new bud mutations continue to emerge in the rows of the Etna area and are evaluated for years before propagation. The goal remains the same: to guarantee identity, quality and continuity of harvest.
The Tarocco di Francofonte today
Today, Francofonte is recognised as the home of the Tarocco: this is evidenced by decades of agricultural specialisation, dedicated local events and a community of producers who have preserved and improved the cultivar.
For us at Mammarancia, the Tarocco di Francofonte is more than a fruit: it is our identity. We say this with respect for other Sicilian and Italian areas, but with the pride of those who have seen this extraordinary orange come into being and grow here.
Quick timeline
• Late 1800s – first observations of “red” fruit in the area.
• Early 1900s – the Tarocco cultivar is described between Pedagaggi–Francofonte and spreads throughout the plain.
• 1920–1930 – first technical publications on the area and specific agronomic practices.
• 1980s–present – selections/clones (Gallo, Rosso, Sant’Alfio M509, Ippolito) and genetic-health improvement.
Quick FAQs
1. Why is the Tarocco less red at the beginning of the season?
Because the night-time temperature changes are not yet marked: anthocyanins increase with the cold of midwinter.
2. What makes Tarocco dell’Etna unique?
Volcanic soil, bright days and cold nights: conditions that concentrate aromas and anthocyanins.
3. Where does the name “Tarocco” come from?
According to a popular hypothesis, it derives from an exclamation of amazement at an “unusual” fruit. It is an anecdotal etymology.
Where to taste it
You can find organic Tarocco red oranges on the Mammarancia Shop 👉🏻 Organic Tarocco Blood Oranges – Mammarancia
Conclusion
The history of Tarocco oranges is the history of a territory: Francofonte and the Plain of Catania. A ‘fortunate’ mutation, farming wisdom and a unique microclimate have created an unmistakable fruit. Today, as then, our commitment is to preserve its identity and offer you the best of Sicily in every bite.