Susan Brown, a professor of horticulture and world-renowned apple breeder, says 2013 is a great year for apples.

Brown says:

“Unlike last year’s scarcity of apples due to frosts, there will be plenty of quality apples available this season with tremendous diversity of offerings. All that rain caused the abundant fruit to size well, and high temperatures and sunlight have helped to develop the flavors and sugars. Recent high temperatures and cold nights provided the optimum situation for quality.

“It is a great year to try new apples like SnapDragon, RubyFrost, SweeTango and Opal. You can also try some Cornell favorites like Macoun, Cortland, Empire, AutumnCrisp, Jonagold and Fortune.

“Cortland is almost 100 years old, yet still a favorite for dried slices and fresh fruit salads, due to its low flesh browning. Apple experts named Jonagold as a favorite dessert apple, yet many have never tasted it. Jonagold, created at Cornell, became a hit in Europe and Japan before being truly recognized at home.

“Try several apples in baking for the best results. Two to three different apples will reduce watery pies and add to flavor and texture. Remember to store your apples in the refrigerator for the best quality. They’ll last longer. Let them warm up a bit before eating to let the flavor come through.”

MEDIA CONTACT
Register for reporter access to contact details