market report:
Westlake Strikes Gold in the Ojai Valley!
A true citrus gem is cultivated not from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. Tucked into the rolling hills of the Ojai Valley, the Ojai Gold Nugget Mandarin flourishes. Bringing this spectacular variety to market is none other than Westlake Produce.
“Known for its remarkable sweetness, vibrant flavor, and easy-peel texture, the Ojai Gold Nugget is a treasure worth savoring,” shared Brian Cook, Managing Director. “It all begins with their deep, complex flavor profile. Unlike traditional Mandarins, these stand out with an exceptionally sweet, honey-like taste, underscored by a refreshing citrus brightness. Their rich juiciness lingers in your mouth, offering a balance of tangy and sweet. Plus, they’re seedless, making them the perfect snack for any occasion, and their naturally loose, textured peel means they’re effortlessly easy to enjoy.”
The Ojai Valley is a small yet fertile region world-renowned for producing some of the most flavorful citrus due to its ideal microclimate. The combination of warm days, crisp evenings, and mineral-rich soil enhances the natural sugars in the fruit, giving Ojai Gold Nuggets their signature sweetness and complexity.
They also ripen later in the season, reaching their peak flavor from April through late spring. As other citrus varieties are beginning to wind down, this is a great option to fill the gap and keep consumers hungry for California citrus.
“This Ojai season ensures that citrus lovers can continue to enjoy fresh, flavorful local Mandarins well beyond the winter months. With each bite, you experience the warmth of the Ojai sun, the cool mist of the nearby Pacific, and the care we place in a bountiful harvest,” Brian remarked.
Westlake Produce prides itself on being a strategic partner in some of the best growing regions in the world. With those partnerships locked in place, the provider is able to source and deliver high-quality fruits and vegetables.
“We believe that great produce starts with great relationships—with the land, with our farmers, and with our customers,” Brian noted. “For over 60 years, Westlake Produce has been a trusted leader in the industry, providing fresh, premium-quality produce 365 days a year. The Ojai Gold Nugget Mandarin is a reflection of our ongoing mission to deliver unparalleled flavor, freshness, and excellence to our buyers.”
Ojai Gold Nugget Mandarins are available now—but only for a limited time! You’ll want to contact a Westlake representative ASAP to lock down an order before the season ends.
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