The Black Diamond is the rarest and most expensive apple in the world, grown exclusively in the Tibetan region of Nyingchi, at an altitude above 3000 meters. The fruit in question, whose name in Chinese translates as “The Throne of the Sun”, is distinguished by the singular color of the peel, which varies from shiny black to dark purple. Despite such a particular appearance, Black Diamond does not present significant differences in taste compared to other apples, even if it is slightly sweeter: what makes it special, in addition to the aesthetic aspect, are the extreme conditions in which it grows and the long ripening process, which significantly affects its price, which can reach up to 20 euros per single fruit.
A product of the Himalayan altitudes
Black Diamond belongs to the Hua Niu variety, a family of apples already known for its rarity and value on the international market. Unlike other varieties, however, Black Diamond is grown in a unique environment: the crops are located in the shadow of the Himalayas, from over 3000 meters above sea level, where the climatic conditions are particularly severe. The temperature range between day and night and intense exposure to ultraviolet rays are among the main factors that contribute to the dark and shiny color of the peel. Despite its external appearance, the inside of the apple remains white, with a sweet and slightly acidic pulp.
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The price of rarity
The high cost of Black Diamond is certainly linked to its extreme rarity, but also to the time required to obtain the first fruits. Trees of this variety take approximately eight years to produce apples, a much longer period than the three to five years of traditional varieties. Furthermore, the prohibitive conditions in which the orchards grow, such as the lack of parasites at such heights, mean that pesticides are not necessary, for an even more exclusive and natural cultivation.
In China, Black Diamond apples are sold mainly in high-end supermarkets, often in gift packs of six or eight fruits, and, despite the high price, they have become a symbol of luxury and sophistication, valued more for their appearance than for the flavour, which does not differ much from that of other apple varieties.
A luxury fruit with no nutritional differences
From a nutritional point of view, Black Diamond does not present major differences compared to traditional apples. The content of fiber, calories and other nutrients is similar to that of other varieties. The most fascinating element for consumers lies in the appearance and exclusivity of the product: being able to say that you have tasted an apple grown in the shadow of the Himalayan peaks adds a value that goes beyond simple taste.
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