Golden Russet

Why you should be excited

Golden Russet is a classic old U.S. russeted apple that’s excellent for fresh-eating and cider.

The story of Golden Russet

Did Golden Russet originate in 19th century New York or 18th century New Jersey? Was it a seedling of an English russet apple or did it have different origins?

A discussion of Golden Russet raises more questions than it answers, but one thing is certain: this is an excellent old-style fresh-eating apple and also a fine choice for making cider.

Yes, it’s got a lot of russet on it, which is considered a defect by modern industrial agriculture. But, as with the great English russet apples, it’s high time for us to dispense with that silliness and start paying more attention to what’s on the inside: delicious, sweet, juicy flesh that’s luscious and an outstanding classic fresh-eating apple.

Golden Russet Facts

Its origins

Discovered in New York, USA, 1845 (or possibly much earlier).

Flavour, aroma, texture

Fine-grained, juicy flesh, crisp, firm and on the sweet side. An excellent eating apple.

Appearance

Attractive, russeted, rounded fruits, medium-sized. Green background with a coppery-orange flush.

When they’re available

Late season (usually in late October).

Quality for fresh eating

Very good.

Quality for cooking

Mainly used for fresh eating and cider.

Quality for cider

Excellent. Golden Russet is considered one of North America's best cider apples.

Keeping ability

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