Gravenstein

This pretty summer apple was first produced at the Danish castle Graasten, which is located in the mostly German-speaking area of the Slesvig countryside (near the border of Germany and Denmark), so the Germans lay claim to the Gravenstein as well as the Danes. It was transplanted to the United States in the 1820s and today is very popular, especially in California, where we mostly see the variety with yellowish, pink to red streaks against a green background. In Europe, and especially in Scandinavia, yellow and deep red Gravensteins are also quite popular. Rounded and plump, with a crisp texture and distinct acid flavor, they are good for both cooking and eating out of hand. Season: Early summer to early fall. Not a good keeper.