Empire (apple)

Empire (apple)

The Empire apple is a popular apple variety that was first developed in the United States. It is a cross between the McIntosh and Red Delicious apple varieties, and is known for its sweet-tart flavor and crisp texture.

History

The Empire apple was first developed in 1945 by the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station. It was named in honor of the state of New York, often referred to as the "Empire State". The apple was released to the public in 1966 and has since become a favorite in both the United States and abroad.

Characteristics

Empire apples are medium-sized and round, with a deep red color that often covers the entire fruit. The skin is thick and glossy, while the flesh is crisp and juicy. The flavor is a balance of sweet and tart, similar to its McIntosh parent, but with a slightly more pronounced sweetness due to the influence of the Red Delicious.

Empire apples are excellent for both eating fresh and cooking. They hold their shape well when baked, making them a popular choice for apple pies and other baked goods. They are also commonly used in salads and sauces due to their sweet-tart flavor.

Cultivation

Empire apples are grown in various regions across the United States, but are most commonly found in the northeastern states due to their preference for cooler climates. They are typically harvested in late September to early October.

The trees are moderately vigorous and tend to be resistant to many common apple diseases, making them a popular choice for both commercial growers and home gardeners.

See also

• List of apple cultivars
• Apple
• McIntosh
• Red Delicious