Fall Apple Primer

Top, left to right: Ambrosia, Gala, Red Delicious; Bottom, left to right: Blondee, Golden Supreme, Fuji

We've been getting loads of different apple varieties from Woodbine Orchard for several weeks. They all look amazing, they have interesting names, but how can you decide which ones to get? I (Amanda) did a little taste test on Monday to create a short & sweet guide to our current apple selection. I'll add more as new varieties are added throughout the rest of the season:

Ambrosia — beautiful redish gold; small-med size; very sweet, crisp
Blondee — bright yellow; tart flavor & nice crunch
Fuji — pink-green; crisp, crunchy, & sweet
Gala — red-yellow; crunchy, mildly sweet with some tartness
Golden Supreme — pale green; crunchy first bite, but softer texture overall (not mealy); juicy citrus/tart flavor
Red Delicious — classic red; softer texture, subtle sweet flavor

Bonus Item: Asian Pear (below right) -- organic, from Sunnyside Farm; very crisp, nice firm texture; subtle sweet/floral "pear" taste. 

Any of these would make a great, fresh snack, but my personal favorites are the Ambrosia, Blondee, & Gala. I'd probably reserve the Red Delicious for when I need the classic red apple aesthetic. Gala, Fuji, & Golden Supreme seem like great all-purpose apples, and I plan to make some applesauce and apple pie soon to find out. The Asian Pear is a great, crunchy salad topping.

Don't miss other seasonal fruits: muscadine grapes, wine grapes & Italian prune plums (below left). Available online and also at the Barn Store.