Topaz

Why you should be excited

Topaz is a humdinger of a late ripening, crisp, tart and flavourful apple hailing from the Czech Republic.

The story of Topaz

What would an apple collection be if we didn’t include a variety from the Czech Republic?...

What? You didn’t know the Czechs even grow apples, let alone breed them? It seems that most countries on the planet, save those near the equator, have been in the apple business at one time or another. And most still are.

If soccer (aka football to most countries) is the world’s sport, then the apple is most certainly the world’s fruit. And Topaz is a fine contribution indeed from the Czechs.

Very late in ripening, this is a super-crisp, tart, flavourful red apple that keeps well and is favourably compared by some to the much-revered Honeycrisp.

Topaz Facts

Its origins

Bred in Rozvojova, Czech Republic; 1990s introduction.

Flavour, aroma, texture

Crisp, cream-coloured flesh, with a distinctive tart and spicy flavour.

Appearance

A medium to large-sized apple. The skin's yellow background is mostly covered by a red and crimson blush.

When they’re available

Very late season (usually in November).

Quality for fresh eating

Very good.

Quality for cooking

Mainly used for fresh eating.

Keeping ability

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