Awesome Apples

The Braeburn apple originates from New Zealand.
Awesome apples to sample this autumn

Winesap

Our sweet-to-tart rating: 4/5

Winesap apples are the all-purpose apple variety. The outer skin is a deep burgundy color, and the inner flesh a hue of yellow. Unlike many other apple blossoms, Winesap blossoms are a light pink rather than white. Because of its wine-like flavor and firm flesh, this apple variety has a prominent history for being used in ciders, juices and preserves. Contrary to the idea that it is “juicy,” the Winesap keeps its firmness under heat, making it an exemplary baking apple as well.

Mutsu

Our rating: 2/5

Otherwise known as Crispin apples, Mutsu will accompany any sweet bread, salad or cheese board. This apple, developed in Japan, debuted in that country’s markets in the 1930s and hit European and American markets under the name Crispin in the 1940s. Being a dessert apple, the Mutsu brings a sweet flavor to pies and tarts or when cubed in muffins and bread. It’s mild on the spice index of apples, making for a perfect pairing with a crisp white Michigan wine and a semi-sharp cheese. (We recommend Raspberry Bellavitano from The Cheese People of Grand Rapids.)

Braeburn

Our rating: 3/4

Originating from New Zealand, the Braeburn apple is a cross between the Lady Hamilton apple and crowd favorite, the Granny Smith. With orange streaks that vary in depth of color depending on the climate the Braeburn is grown in, this apple is sure to catch your eye. Braeburns are crisp, with a thin skin that crunches easily into a pale yellow, lightly spicy fruit. With hints of nutmeg, pear, and even cinnamon notes, this apple is one that covers all needs. Good for eating fresh off the branch or for baking, applesauce, ciders, jams and dinner dishes, this apple is one to be on the lookout for during harvest season.

Arkansas Black

Our rating: 5/5 for the initial flavor, 2/5 for long-term flavor.

The Arkansas Black is what we consider a “shapeshifter.” With a heavy burgundy-black color, this apple begins as a tart, dense fruit that’s perfect to eat off the branch. The Arkansas Black is also perfect for ciders and baking, since it keeps its firm consistency and will stay months in prime condition in cold storage. However, during long-term storage, this apple changes to a smooth, soft dessert apple.

Paula Red

Our rating: 1/5

A dusty-red-hued gem accented with small gold spots, this early season varietal is a beauty on the chopping block. Paula Reds were developed in Sparta, Michigan, by Lewis Arrends. He found a by-chance seedling in his orchard and decided to give it a try. The seedling became a successful bloom, and he ended up naming this offspring of the McIntosh apple after his wife, Pauline. Paula Reds are sweet in flavor but over time can become mealy in texture. That being said, they make for an outstanding applesauce base. We view the Paula Red as one of those American standby apples — traditional, sweet, and easy to eat.

Megan Kucks

Leave a Reply

The delicious native fruit you may not know about
Yes, there really is a Kalamazoo Café in Malaysia
Chocolatier picks five flavors to give or get

Support local journalism by subscribing to Encore

By becoming a subscriber, you can help secure the future of Encore’s local reporting.

One year for
$36
Just $3 a month!

Sign up for our Newsletter

Never miss an issue by getting Encore delivered to your Inbox every month.

The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by those interviewed and featured in our articles do not reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Encore Magazine or the official policies, owners or employees of Encore Publications.

Encore Magazine is published 12 times a year. © 2023 Encore Publications. All Rights Reserved.
117 W. Cedar St., Suite A, Kalamazoo, MI 49007 (269) 383-4433