Discovery

Why you should be excited

Discovery is a pretty early apple from England that gets each new apple season off to a fresh and tasty start.

The story of Discovery

If you think the ancient practice of planting apple seeds and hoping for the best is long gone, think again.

Discovery is a mid-20th century apple that originated exactly that way, when an orchard worker in Essex, England  planted a bunch of Worcester Pearmain seeds and found the best of the resulting trees bore a desirable early apple, indeed: Discovery was born!

A popular commercial variety in England, Discovery’s greatest strength is its early ripening. But it’s also a pretty red apple that tastes refreshing, if not complex. And it grows on a tree that’s not especially finicky.

Best of all, it’s a welcome harbinger of the new apple season each August.

Discovery Facts

Its origins

Started from seed in Essex, England; introduced 1949.

Flavour, aroma, texture

Crisp and juicy flesh that's sometimes slightly stained pink. Relatively tart. Some say it can have a hint of strawberry flavour.

Appearance

This roundish, slightly flat, medium-sized apple tends to be flushed bright red over its greenish-yellow background.

When they’re available

Early season (usually in August).

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

Limited (a few weeks when kept refrigerated).