Orleans Reinette

Why you should be excited

Orleans Reinette is a classic old French apple best known for its fresh-eating quality, plus for providing a sweet baked apple.

The story of Orleans Reinette

You know an apple has been both popular for a long time and the product of a somewhat confused history when it has been known by a large number of different names. Try 121 of them in the case of Orleans Reinette.

This fine apple – sometimes confused with the equally old but less complex-flavoured Golden Reinette – gained great favour in the United Kingdom a century ago, both as a commercially grown apple and a popular garden planting.

Just think old style English apple – with dryish flesh and a sweet, nutty flavour – and you’ll have the right idea.

Famed English nurseryman George Bunyard listed Orleans Reinette as one of the top six apples in the whole world.

Orleans Reinette Facts

Its origins

Uncertain, but likely discovered in France, 18th century.

Flavour, aroma, texture

The firm, dry flesh can be sweet, nutty and aromatic.

Appearance

This medium-sized apple has an attractive orange-red flush over its gold-coloured background skin colour, with plenty of russet dots.

When they’re available

Late season (usually in mid-October).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality for cooking

Good when used just barely ripe.

Quality for cider

Considered an excellent heritage apple addition to cider blends.

Keeping ability

Good (2 to 3 months when kept refrigerated).