Melrose
Why you should be excited:
Melrose is a great multi-purpose apple that looks good and tastes even better after some time in storage.
The story of Melrose:
Ever been to Ohio? If not, taste a Melrose apple and let your imagination take you to 1940s Canton. Or maybe Columbus.
Melrose is Ohio’s official state apple, a cross between Jonathan and Red Delicious. It's the product of Ohio's apple breeding program during the first half of the 20th century. We can thank Dr. Freeman S. Howlett of the Ohio Agricultural Experiment Station for this fine creation.
It’s medium-large, roundish with yellow skin blushed bright red. With rich flavour and coarse, juicy flesh, Melrose is a good fresh-eating apple that’s best when it’s been stored for a while. It also cooks well, holding its shape.
There's something about Melrose that just shouts out "I am an apple and proud of it!". Maybe it's that rugged apeparance and hearty size. Or the fine sugary sweetness that's perfectly balanced by a touch of tart acidity. And the darn thing will keep perfectly under refrigeration for a good four months.
If you're wondering why commercial agriculture wouldn't snap up a variety with all these great characteristics, you may or may not be surprised to learn that this awesome apple was rejected due to its colour being too 'dull' and not conducive to a good machine polishing.
Sigh. We think you'll want to forgive Melrose for this not-so major failing and appreciate this otherwise magnificent apple anyway.
Melrose Facts
Its origins: |
Bred in Ohio, USA; 1944 introduction. |
Flavour, aroma, texture: |
Firm, coarse, juicy, creamy white flesh. Slightly acidic flavour that improves after some time in storage. |
Appearance: |
Very good. Large, flattened shape with dark-red streaked and flushed skin over a yellowish-green background. |
When they’re available: |
Late season (usually in late October). |
Quality for fresh eating: |
Very good. |
Quality for cooking: |
Very good. |
Keeping ability: |
Very good (up to 4 months when kept cold). |
Next of The Big 18 is Nova Easygro.
