Greenvale AP, one of the UK's largest suppliers of fresh potatoes celebrated its first harvest of Ayrshire potatoes today (Thursday 8th June) at Tesco store Whitletts Road, Ayr. Over the next eight weeks nearly 600 tonnes of potatoes will be harvested and sold in Tesco stores, an increase of 50% on last year as Greenvale AP sets to "smash" last years yield as demand for this speciality continues to grow.
To satisfy demand, for the first time this year Greenvale will be supplying a new variety - 'Vales Emerald' as part of their Ayrshire new season offering. Vales Emerald has been bred to produce early yields without compromising on the real "new potato" taste. This will give the earliest possible opportunity to taste new Ayrshire potatoes. Girvan Early Growers based in the heart of Ayrshire's new potato country are growing the variety to fill the gap between Epicure and Maris Peer.
Synonymous with summer Ayrshire new potatoes are widely regarded as being one of the finest tasting potatoes available and is highly sought after during its eight week season. Chefs all over the UK recognise is fabulous texture and taste. This succulent potato is delicately fragranced from the rich soil it grows in and is a beautiful creamy colour. Ayrshire is one of the most agriculturally fertile regions of Scotland, untamed countryside and un-spoilt coastline sit where the potatoes benefit from the warm air generated by the gulf stream. And it is this unique combination of weather and soil that makes this variety of potatoes so distinct and widely anticipated.
"With positive results in samplings around the country Vales Emerald looks set to become a staple part of our new season and baby potato portfolio" said Doug Bell, General Manager at Greenvale AP's Duns based business.
For over 40 years, Greenvale has supplied the UK with potatoes grown on farms all over Scotland. With more than 30 varieties of tatties, every use from chipping, boiling, roasting, baking to mashing is catered for – the perfect potatoes for your favourite dishes. Greenvale supplies over 500 tonnes of the nation's favourite vegetable to all Tesco stores across Scotland every week.
