King Coffee

Why you should be excited

King Coffee is an early 20th century English apple best known for the claim by its fans that it has hints of coffee flavour.

The story of King Coffee

This apple appeared in England seemingly from nowhere in the 1930s, with its adherents saying it was a very old variety from Worcestershire.

It gained attention once it appeared at a fruit conference in large part because of claims that it tasted like coffee. An unusual flavour for an apple, to be sure. Unusual and – many people say – not really discernible by most of us.

What everyone does notice is that this is a big, round apple and one that is both sweet and juicy.

Sure, give it a try if you want to test out the novelty of the coffee claim; just don’t expect it to deliver a whole lot in that department.

King Coffee Facts

Its origins:

Unknown origins in Worcestershire, England, pre-1930s.

Flavour, aroma, texture

Hard, sweet and juicy. A few people say there are hints of coffee.

Appearance

A large round apple with dark red skin over a green background.

When they’re available

Late season (in our orchard, we expect early October).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality for cider

Mainly used for fresh-eating.

Quality for cooking

Mainly used for fresh-eating.

Keeping ability

Good (about 2 months when kept refrigerated).