Hudson’s Golden Gem

Why you should be excited

Hudson’s Golden Gem is the largest of the high-quality russet apples, with a distinctive pear-like flavour.

The story of Hudson's Golden Gem

Do you consider russeted apples to be inherently ugly or truly beautiful?

It seems almost everyone falls into one camp or the other, with few apple-lovers having no opinion on the topic.

Connoisseurs tend to overwhelmingly fall into the second group, celebrating the beauty and the complex flavour of the scratchy-coated russets, respected heritage varieties all.

The largest of the russets is Hudson’s Golden Gem, which was found by chance in Oregon during the first third of the 20th century and delivers excellent flavour in a tall, eye-catching apple.

Like russets generally, this is an apple that ripens late, is mainly used for fresh eating and keeps quite well.

Awesome, as long as you like the scratchy, brownish coat…

Hudson's Golden Gem Facts

Its origins

Discovered in Oregon, USA; introduced in 1931.

Flavour, aroma, texture

The crisp, light-yellow flesh is tender, sweet and juicy. The flavour has been described as Bosc pear-like, with a hint of nuttiness.

Appearance

This is the largest of the high-quality russet apples and fairly tall, with dull yellow-coloured skin, mostly covered with the russet.

When they’re available

Late season (usually in late October).

Quality for fresh eating

Very good. Also good for juice.

Quality for cooking

Mainly used for fresh eating and cider.

Quality for cider

Very good. With its classic and distinctive russet sweetness, it's a popular choice for heritage-style cider blends.

Keeping ability

Good (about 3 months when kept refrigerated).