With its wide range in temperatures and strong sunlight, the Sicilian climate helps to produce the finest citrus fruit. Maison Ponthier has selected balanced and flavourful blood oranges grown in a superbly fertile environment of volcanic soils encircled by mountains. These mountains mostly comprise tertiary land, known as "Trubi" or "sandy marls", where the soil is rich in chalk, minerals and fine yellow sand. This well-drained soil is ideal terrain for citrus groves. The orange trees that grow there are abundantly laden with fruit. Moreover, the mountains abound with small streams which provide a steady supply of water and allow the growth of healthy trees. The naturally sunny climate of the island also contributes to the fine quality of Sicilian fruit, since continuous sunshine is essential for citrus fruit to mature correctly.