Red Jersey

Why you should be excited

Red Jersey is a lesser-known English bittersweet cider apple that produce a tannic juice that packs a punch.

The story of Red Jersey

Never really a significant variety for cider-making, Red Jersey has plenty to offer, so might one day gain at least a bit more profile than it has today.

Producing lots of apples that are juicy, sweet and quite tannic, this is a good variety to include in a blend along with less assertive varieties, as a little bit of Red Jersey juice goes a long way to give an otherwise bland cider blend some body, colour, bitterness and character.

The tree is moderately vigorous and spreading and it’s highly productive – every second year.

Yes, like many cider varieties, this one tends to be biennial. 

Also like many other cider varieties, the tree blooms late and is harvested late in the season.

Red Jersey Facts

Its origins:

Discovered in Somerset, England, some time before 1895.

Flavour, aroma, texture

The juice is full-bodied, bitter and astringent.

Appearance

A small conical apple striped and flushed with red.

When they’re available

Late-season (in our orchard: early October).

Quality for fresh eating

Too bitter to eat fresh.

Quality for cider

Very good. Part of our traditional cider base.

Quality for cooking

Limit this one to cider.

Keeping ability

Good (sweat for a few weeks before pressing).