Comice is widely considered to have the best flavour of any pear. It has both the characteristic "melting" flesh of the highest quality pear varieties, along with a sweet richness and delicacy which others can't quite attain.
Although originating from France it was also well-known in England by the late 19th century and the Victorian author Robert Hogg records several letters from fellow enthusiasts praising its "surpassing flavour".
Next deliveries: December 2024 - February 2025
As befits such a refined pear, if you are in northern Europe then Doyenne du Comice needs to be grown in a sheltered south-facing situation, and it does best in drier climates.
The other important consideration with Comice is that it needs a reliable pollination partner nearby, as the shape of its flowers makes it difficult for successful pollination to occur. Conference is a good choice as it is a naturally good pollinator and flowers just 3-4 days ahead of Comice, as are Gorham or Williams - the latter works well with Doyenne du Comice because they have separate fruiting seasons.
The fruit size is relatively large by pear standards - provided you thin the fruitlets in late spring.
As with all pears, it is important to get the time of picking right. Unlike apples, which are usually best if left to ripen on the tree, pears should be picked under-ripe and then ripened indoors (or in a fridge). It is generally ready to pick in early to mid October.
Inspite of its somewhat fussy requirements, Comice is quite resistant to fireblight, one of the main diseases of pears.
Comice was raised in the garden of the Comice Horticole, in the town of Angers in the Loire valley, France, during the mid-19th century.
This variety description was researched and written by Orange Pippin staff. Last checked: 2024.