2010 began with a nationwide release by Stemilt fruit (they also produce the seckel pears I wrote about in a previous post) of a new apple, the Pinata. In case your wondering where they are harvesting apples in January in the United States, these apples were actually harvested in October and held in a controlled area until their nationwide release just after Christmas. Some background on this apple, it was first grown in the US In 2004. It has been available in the Pacific Northwest for a couple years, but this is the first time the entire nation has gotten a chance to taste this apple.
So what does it taste like? In the Pinata’s heritage you find the Golden Delicious, Cox’s Orange Pippin, and the Duchess of Oldenburg (fancy name!). The apple is firm, crunchy, and juicy. It has a tropical (pineapple/mango like) undertone in it’s taste, which makes it unique. It also doesn’t brown very quickly so you can enjoy your time eating it, which out of hand eating is probably your best bet with this apple. I have read though that it can be used for baking, but it’s really best enjoyed as is. I find my sample at the Meijer store in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Check a grocery store near you to find this new apple treat. Feel free to post a comment to tell us where you have seen the Pinata and what you think of it.
Update (1/13/10) : I have had the Pinata at room temperature and out of the fridge and I found that the tropcial undertone is more noticeable if you put it in the fridge first.
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Stemilt says:
January 12, 2010 at 1:27 pm (UTC -6)
Thanks for mentioning our exclusive apple variety, Pinata! Such a great description of the apple’s flavor. It’s the blend of heirloom varieties and a unique, thin skin from Golden Delicious that give this apple its versatility. We have more of this apple planted in our orchards right now – so look for Pinata in the coming years too! Also, we mentioned this post on our Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/PinataApple.
Eat Like No One Else » Blog Archive » The Red Prince Apple says:
March 4, 2010 at 6:17 am (UTC -6)
[...] I go to the grocery store I am come upon another new apple variety to try. Apples like the Jazz, Pinata, and Sonya. Next up for my taste buds is the Red Prince. I bought them in a bag after trying a [...]
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March 8, 2010 at 1:42 pm (UTC -6)
[...] out these other varities I have written about this winter: Pinata Jazz Red Prince Pacific Rose [...]
Eat Like No One Else − Where to Find Pinata Apple Apples in 2010/2011? says:
December 28, 2010 at 12:31 pm (UTC -6)
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November 3, 2011 at 1:54 pm (UTC -6)
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