Epicure

Why you should be excited

Epicure is a sister apple to Laxton's Fortune, both yet more good-quality offspring of Cox's Orange Pippin.

The story of Epicure

Just as the U.S.-born siblings Liberty and Freedom are quality apples and different enough to co-exist nicely in the same orchard, the same can be said for England's Epicure and Laxton's Fortune.

Like so many other English-bred apples, they started with Cox's Orange Pippin as one parent. For these particular siblings, the hardy Minnesota-bred Wealthy was the other.

Raised in 1909, about five years after its sister, Epicure produces an apple that's on the small side, but is pretty, has a nice texture and equally pleasant flavour for fresh-eating. Also known as Laxton's Epicure, this variety ripens fairly early in the season.

Laxton Brothers Nursery also introduced a bunch of other varieties during the same era (including Laxton's Superb, which we grow), a most excellent contribution to the diversity of good quality apples.

And after a century, this one remains a popular backyard garden variety in the U.K.

Epicure Facts

Its origins

Raised from a seed near Bedfordshire, England in 1909; introduced in 1929.

Flavour, aroma, texture

The creamy white flesh is sweet and juicy, with a hint of Cox's Orange Pippin's complex flavour.

Appearance

Small to medium-sized, with an attractive mottled flush of orange/red.

When they’re available

Early season (usually in early September).

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 (no more than a few weeks when kept refrigerated).