Arlet

Why you should be excited

Arlet is a modern Swiss-bred fresh-eating apple that’s as pretty as it is tasty.

The story of Arlet

You may know it as Swiss Gourmet, or – if you come from Europe – perhaps Hugo Red.

More likely, you don’t know it at all, as Arlet’s moment in the sun as a commercial variety was brief and limited to plantings in the Swiss-German border area.

The limited plantings are a pity, as this is a particularly pretty apple that nicely splits the difference between the appearance of one parent (Golden Delicious) and the other (Idared).

The combination has created a yellow apple that’s beautifully flushed with a rose-pink colour and nicely crisp and juicy, with a honeyed sweetness and delightful aroma.

Sounds good to us.

You won’t find Arlet grown in big commercial orchards, but you can still enjoy it.

Arlet Facts

Its origins

Bred in Wadenswil, Switzerland; 1960s introduction.

Flavour, aroma, texture

Crisp, juicy, quite honeyed and lightly perfumed.

Appearance

This pretty apple features an attractive rose-pink flush.

When they’re available

Mid-season (usually in early October).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality for cooking

Mainly used for fresh eating.

Quality for cider

Not particularly known for use in cider.

Keeping ability

Good (2 or 3 months when kept refrigerated).