Mela Carla

Why you should be excited

Mela Carla is an Italian apple that needs a good warm growing season to deliver its fruit at full flavour.

The story of Mela Carla

Although it's barely even known in its Italian homeland today, Mela Carla was quite a phenom back in the day, inspiring apple lovers across Europe to seek it out.

In the United Kingdom, where they had a heck of a time getting Mela Carla ripe in their sometimes dull summer weather, folks would grow potted trees under glass in hopes of getting the beautiful fruit ripe.

It's not a large apple, but it's a pretty one, delivering excellent flavour over about a four month period each fall and winter.

Even as the flavour moderates over time in storage, Mela Carla apples retain their appeal both to the eye and the taste buds.

Mela Carla Facts

Its origins

Unknown origins in Italy, sometime before the 1700s.

Flavour, aroma, texture

The flesh is soft and white, aromatic, juicy and sweet.

Appearance

A smallish, pretty apple that's flushed with red.

When they’re available

Mid-season (usually in early October).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality for cooking

Mainly used for fresh eating.

Quality for cider

Not particularly known for use in cider.

Keeping ability

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