In fact, these late rains are one important reason why European cherry producers grow several cherry varieties. With diversity of varieties comes protection. Most, if not all, cherry varieties that are widely grown in Europe are more crack-resistant than Bing. In addition, each variety has a different ripening date and, therefore, a different period of susceptibility to cracking. Another reason for producing several varieties is to extend the harvest season.
Diversity tends to stabilize the market as cherries are marketed over a longer period of time.
Different varieties dominate the market in different regions. Local varieties play an important role in many parts of Europe. These cherries are generally good, but lack one or more quality traits that would make them more widely accepted. For example, Dr. Ferdinando Cossio, director of the Institute of Experimental Fruit Culture for the Province of Verona, told me he believes Mora de Cazzano is the best cherry in the world. Although I was not able to taste it, since it was not yet ripe, I was told that the cherry has an excellent sweet flavor with good firmness and shelf life.