This variety of mandarin was first discovered in Morocco, and then was grown extensively in Spain in the 1950’s and 1960’s. California growers first planted these trees in 1978 and then quickly expanded acreage throughout the central valley in the 1980’s. The Fina Sodea was highly valued for its exceptional sweetness and well-rounded flavor. However, growers learned that this variety was difficult to grow due to inconsistent crop yields and cross-pollination problems when the trees were near other citrus varieties. Although its flavor couldn’t be beat, both of these factors made it tough to cultivate on a commercial level and most large citrus growers both in the US and Spain began pulling out the orchards and replacing the trees with the Clemenules varieties, which you see commonly today. The Clemenules tend to set better and harvest can be extended, but flavor was lost. There are very few Fina Sodea Clemintine orchards left in the US, at all.
 
Ken Olsen and Olsen Organic Farm in Lindsay, CA decided to change that and bring these wonderful little mandarins back to the market where they belong. Be sure to fill up a bag and take some home today, the season will only last until the New Year!