Autumn has arrived in Valencia – and with it comes the first harvest of organic mandarins.
At QuieroNaranjas we open the season with ClemenRubí, a very early clementine that we start harvesting in October.
Perfect for those waiting for the first “easy-to-peel” fruits of the year.
Our family has been practicing organic farming for generations: no chemicals, harvested to order, and shipped straight from the field so that they reach you fresh and aromatic.
? Buy freshly harvested organic mandarins online
Clementines and Satsumas: two main groups of mandarins
Within the mandarin family there are two main groups:
- Clementines (such as ClemenRubí, Oronules, Oroval, Clemenules): highly aromatic and sweet, tender segments, thin peel.
- Satsumas (Okitsu, Owari…): usually flatter and larger, extremely easy to peel, with a milder flavor.
ClemenRubí is among the earliest varieties; after that come Oronules, Oroval, and Clemenules.
(Source: IVIA)
Our first variety: ClemenRubí (October)
The first mandarin we harvest each season at QuieroNaranjas is ClemenRubí.
It has a thin skin, intense aroma and excellent eating quality.
We harvest at the optimal point of ripeness and ship directly, without artificial coloring or ripening chambers.
Why are some early mandarins deep orange, while others slightly green?
In citrus production it is common to use “degreening”: a post-harvest treatment with ethylene gas
that accelerates the external color change when internal ripeness has already been reached.
Scientific studies suggest it may affect certain sensory attributes.
We prefer the natural way: if a mandarin has a slight greenish hue, it means freshness and authentic flavor.
(IVIA – Study on degreening in citrus)
Organic mandarins from Valencia: origin and quality
The Valencia region is a European benchmark for citrus.
The official seal PGI Cítricos Valencianos guarantees origin and quality.
According to the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture,
mandarins and oranges from Valencia are among Spain’s leading crops.
Healthy and practical: perfect for children
Mandarins are rich in vitamin C, provide provitamin A (carotenoids such as cryptoxanthin) and flavonoids.
They are easy to peel, perfect for children, and a much healthier snack than processed desserts.
A single serving contributes significantly to the daily intake of antioxidants.
(Spanish Nutrition Foundation – Mandarins)
Clementines vs. Satsumas: which should you choose?
- Do you like more intense flavor and aroma? Choose Clementines (ClemenRubí at the beginning of the season; later Clemenules).
- Do you prefer ultra-easy peeling and mild taste? Go for Satsumas (such as Okitsu).
In both cases, if they are organic and freshly harvested, you can’t go wrong.
How we work
- Truly organic: respecting soil and biodiversity, with no synthetic chemicals.
- Harvest to order: we only pick after you order – no long storage.
- Fast delivery: from Valencia to your door within 24–48 h.
Quick questions (FAQ)
When does the season start?
In Valencia, the season begins in October with ClemenRubí and other early varieties; Clemenules and others follow in autumn and winter.
Why do some early mandarins look greenish?
Because internal ripeness is reached earlier than external color.
Many producers use “degreening”, but we prefer natural ripening.
Are mandarins good for kids?
Yes: lots of vitamin C, carotenoids and flavonoids – and very easy to peel.
Official sources
- IVIA – Harvest calendar and varieties
- IVIA – Degreening in citrus
- PGI Cítricos Valencianos
- Spanish Nutrition Foundation – Nutritional profile
Want to know when the season begins and which varieties we grow?
Read our blog post:
Organic Mandarins from Valencia: Season Kick-Off ? (ClemenRubí)
