Have you ever heard of the Winesap apple tree? This famous heirloom apple was once very popular but hasn’t become very popular in the past 75 years, so not everyone knows about it.
This is an old type dating back to the colonial era. It was popular in the old days in part because of its long shelf life. When America was young, colonists likely enjoyed these apples in the fall and throughout the winter. It has a unique flavor that is delicious whether cooked or eaten raw.
Keep reading to learn all about this delicious apple, including ways to use it and how to grow your own!
History of Winesap Apple
The exact origin of the vine apple is unknown but it is likely that it dates back to the 18th century. The first known mention of this apple was in 1804 in New Jersey. It was grown commercially in Virginia in the 19th century but became less popular in the 20th century in the 1950s when other varieties such as Red Delicious increased.
Like other winter apples, the wine’s long shelf life is part of what made it a popular apple before refrigerators became popular. Once more people had refrigerators in their homes, it became easier to keep more shelf-stable apples and their popularity increased.
The characteristics of the apple tree Winesap
Winesap apple trees are about 10-25 feet tall. In the spring they have beautiful red apple blossoms. In summer, the fruits develop into small to medium-sized apples with a thick, glossy red peel.
The apples are very ripe, juicy, crunchy, and have a sharp flavor. The peel is tough and a little pressed, so many people prefer to peel these apples before eating them. The fruit is kept very well – fresh apples can last up to 6 months.
What do they taste like?
Winesap apples have a deep, rich, wine-like flavor, which is where they got their name. It’s full of complex flavors, like wine. It can be sour, sometimes slightly sour, and very sweet.
Who do they go with?
These apples are very versatile. It pairs particularly well with wine, cheese, and anywhere you’d normally like to use apples, such as fresh salads or apple butter on crackers. They’re delicious in recipes with other traditional fall flavors like nutmeg and cinnamon, and delicious in mixes to relish when dried.
How to use it in cooking
There are many great options when it comes to cooking apple wine. It disintegrates very easily so it works well for things like apples. It can also keep its shape when cooked so you can still use it in stews and other baked goods. In fact, baking apple pies is one of the most common uses for Winesap apples. The deep and tangy flavor is perfect for baking and adds great flavor.
The rich apple flavor of the wine also adds depth to cider and other smoothies.
Snack
These are great apples for snacking. Try dipping apple slices in almond butter or peanut butter for a balanced snack. The fiber from the apple, the fat, and the protein in the nut butter will keep you full and satiated for hours.
Children
Apples are a delicious and nutritious treat for children. Many children love all kinds of apples. Help your kids make applesauce or serve apple slices with cheese for a healthy and delicious snack.
Do you hesitate to pack apple slices into your kids’ lunches because they don’t like them when they turn brown? Here is a tip for you. Sprinkle fresh lemon juice on apples and they will look bright and fresh for hours!
Health benefits of Winesap apple
Winesap apples are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin K, iron, calcium, and potassium. These nutrients strengthen your immune system, maintain healthy organ function, and more.
In addition, all types of apples are a good source of fiber that helps improve digestion.
Growing at home
Winesap apples are easy to grow and produce well (sometimes even in poor soil) so they are a great choice for home gardening. If the tree you buy is old enough, it can bear fruit in the first year! You’ll love eating fresh apples in the fall.
Pruning
Careful pruning can help your apple tree thrive! Besides helping prevent diseases by providing proper airflow, pruning also helps light reach all areas of the tree giving it the energy it needs to produce good fruit. Prune your tree before flowering in late winter or early spring.
When is the harvest?
After taking care of your tree care and watching those beautiful red apples grow all summer long, it can be hard to wait for them to be ready. But they will be worth the wait! Winesap apples are ready to harvest in September. You’ll know they’re ready when they roll up the tree with ease. If they don’t pull easily, let them sit a little longer.
Although it has not become popular in the past 75 years or so, it is still a delicious apple with many qualities. If you enjoy rich, tart flavors that aren’t sweet, you’ll probably love Winesap apples.
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