Slack Ma Girdle

Why you should be excited

Slack Ma Girdle is an old English sweet cider apple that’s obscure despite the quality of both fruit and tree, plus the quirky name.

The story of Slack Ma Girdle

How can you not love an apple with a wacky name like this?

If it was a terrible apple, I suppose you could easily, but that’s not the case with Slack Ma Girdle, which is a sweet cider apple that also works as a fresh eater and in preserves.

We favour use in cider. Best blended with bittersharp or bittersweet varieties, Slack Ma Girdle provides more than just sweet juice; it also adds character to cider, including a distinctive ‘woody’ aroma.’

As for the name, there is debate over whether it originated as a warning that it could cause gas for those who drink cider made from it or a warning to young women (perhaps originating as Slack Ma Girl, not Girdle) that they risk being plied with this cider by fellows with questionable intentions.

Slack Ma Girdle Facts

Its origins

Discovered in Devon, England, 18th century.

Flavour, aroma, texture

The sweet juice makes a rich cider with ‘woody’ aroma.

Appearance

A flattened shape striped and flushed with red.

When they’re available

Very late season (usually in late October or even later).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality in cider

Very good.

Quality for cooking

Because it’s super sweet, it ‘s also good in preserves.

Keeping ability

Good (can hang on the tree or ‘sweat’ before pressing).