Reinette Simirenko

Why you should be excited

Reinette Simirenko is both a Ukrainian classic variety and a delightful green-skinned apple that's crisp and tasty.

The story of Reinette Simirenko

How many apple varieties can say they've been to outer space? Okay... how many if they were able to talk? Taken along by cosmonauts for snack-time, no less?

I'm guessing not many.

But Reinette Simirenko, a classic old Ukrainian apple variety (although some say it originated in the U.S. several decades before then), has this claim to fame. Even more impressive for most of us located here on earth, it's a tasty apple that some may consider an improvement over the similar-looking Granny Smith. It's less tart and has a more well-balanced and complex flavour, people say.

Just ask someone who hails from Ukraine; in our experience, they tend to get excited when the topic of Reinette Simirenko comes up. So we recommend trying this apple for yourself and seeing if you feel likewise.

Reinette Simirenko Facts

Its origins

Widely considered to have originated in Ukraine, 1895, but some say this may be the same as an American variety that's at least 40 years older than that.

Flavour, aroma, texture

Crisp and tender, with greenish-white flesh that's delicately tart and well-balanced in flavour.

Appearance

A medium-large, green-skinned, conical-shaped apple, occasionally with a slight reddish blush.

When they’re available

Very late season (usually in early November).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality in cider:

Not widely known for use in cider, but that acid could be useful.....

Quality for cooking

Good.

Keeping ability

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