Marie-Joseph d’Othee

Why you should be excited

Marie-Joseph d'Othee is a multi-purpose apple from Belgium that excels after a couple of months in storage.

The story of Marie-Joseph d'Othee

When the gardener Monville d'Othee discovered this apple growing on the property of his employer, he obviously knew he was onto something special.

Clearly, the man was a romantic, as the apple -- presumably like his wife, Marie-Joseph, after whom he named it -- really improves over time.

At harvest, or a week later, this may seem an unremarkable fruit. But if you let it mellow in storage, say, until January, then you've got something special: an intense, richly-flavoured apple with an outstanding balance of sweet and sharp.

Marie-Joseph d'Othee works equally well for fresh eating and baking.

Marie-Joseph d'Othee Facts

Its origins

Discovered in Othee, Belgium, around 1870.

Flavour, aroma, texture

After time in storage, it mellows to a strong apple flavour that nicely balances sugar and acid.

Appearance

A pretty apple with red stripes dappled over its greenish-yellow background.

When they’re available

Late season (usually in late October).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality for cooking

Good.

Quality for cider

Not particularly known for use in cider, but we expect it would fare well in a cider blend.

Keeping ability

Very good (up to 4 or 5 months when kept refrigerated).