Blaze

Why you should be excited

Blaze is a mid-20th century apple bred in Illinois and known for its prettiness and pleasant taste.

The story of Blaze

Despite its high-octane name, this is not an apple that has generated a whole lot of publicity over recent decades. This may be partly because its parents – Collins and Fanny – are themselves not exactly household names.

Raised as a seedling in 1939 at the University of Illinois, Blaze is a mid-season fresh-eating apple that makes up for its low profile by delivering good flavour and an attractive appearance.

Relatively unknown, perhaps, but it’s got a lot going for it, including that nice flavour, good looks and reasonable keeping ability. Who really cares that nobody else has heard of it, as long as we have and we’ve taken a definite liking to this variety?

Blaze Facts

Its origins

Raised as a seedling in Urbana, Illinois, USA in 1939; 1958 release.

Flavour, aroma, texture

Crisp and sweet, the flesh conveys a very nice, sprightly flavour.

Appearance

A beautiful apple with a carmine flush and stripes.

When they’re available

Mid-season (usually in late September).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality for cooking

Mainly used for fresh eating.

Quality for cider

Not particularly known for use in cider, but like many heritage varieties, it can contribute a very nice sugar/acid balance to blends.

Keeping ability

Good (3 months or even longer when kept refrigerated).