Fenouillet Gris

Why you should be excited

Fenouillet Gris is an old-style apple (as you might expect from a 17th century discovery), distinctive in appearance and flavour.

The story of Fenouillet Gris

You might expect unusual aromas and flavours from an apple that was once prized in France for its musky anise smell and that was also known in England as Caraway Russet.

This spiciness, combined with the variety’s rustic appearance and dryish flesh, proves that Fenouillet Gris is, indeed a memorable heirloom apple variety. So memorable that it was one of just seven varieties selected to be the focus of apple tree plantings at Versaille, back in the day when the word ‘Versaille’ really meant something.

Having said all that, let’s acknowledge that a dry-fleshed apple with wacky aromas and virtually no acidity might be a hard sell in modern grocery stores.

Which is why you’ll never see this variety there.

Fenouillet Gris Facts

Its origins

Discovered in Anjou, France, 17th century.

Flavour, aroma, texture

The dryish flesh is sweet, sometimes with an anise flavour.

Appearance

Distinctive appearance: lumpy with grey russet over dark red.

When they’re available

Late season (usually in mid-October).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality for cooking

Mainly used for fresh eating.

Quality for cider

Not particularly known as a cider apple.

Keeping ability

Very good (3 to 4 months when kept refrigerated).