Concorde is a fairly new variety, but combines the strengths of two classic 19th century varieties. From Conference it inherits reliability and cropping potential, and excellent suitability for the temperate climate. From Doyenne du Comice it inherits top quality flavour. The result is a pear that has both an excellent flavour and yet is fairly easy to grow.
The fruit is very similar to Conference in appearance, tall and pear shaped with extensive russet. The skin colour is variable, normally a yellow-cream color but it may sometimes be flushed from exposure to sunlight.
Concorde produces a compact upright tree.
Like all pears it can be difficult to tell ripeness on the tree, but if you lift and twist gently and the fruit comes away then it will be ready to pick. However leave the pears in a fruit bowl for a few days, until they become a golden yellow colour - at this point they should be ripe and ready to eat.
Concorde is particularly suited to organic growing regimes, as it has some scab resistance.
Concorde is usually considered self-fertile, but in practice it performs much better if there is a compatible pollinator nearby.
Concorde was developed at the East Malling Research Station in the UK, in the 1970s. It is a cross betweeen Conference and Doyenne du Comice.
This variety description was researched and written by Orange Pippin staff. Last checked: 2024.