Bartlett

By large account, the most popular pear in the United States. Known as Williams in Europe, it was developed in eighteenth-century England and brought across the Atlantic to the Colonies by the early settlers. Here it was named after Enoch Bartlett, a Massachusetts resident who promoted and popularized the variety. Bartlett pears turn from dark green to light golden yellow when they are perfectly ripe. A pretty red-skinned strain of Bartlett has also been developed. These are great for use in a fruit display or fruit basket, or served fresh with cheeses. Red Bartletts are of no significance for peeling and cooking, as the flavor is no different from the original. Season: Midseason.