What is the first thing that comes to mind when I say "crap apple"? Do you think of some tree growing in our yard, your neighbor's yard, or your favorite park? Do you have childhood memories of deciding that throwing a crab apple at someone was much more fun than actually eating one?
As we grow older our palates become more sophisticated - hopefully, at least mine did. Maybe you have grown to show some appreciate for crap apples. Apple jelly anyone? Just grabbing one and eating then out of hand? Probably not. Are crab apples just not worthy of eating out of hand? Or have you just not found the right crab apple. Let me introduce to you the Chestnut Crab - the apples I am munching on as I write this post.
I have more surprises up my sleeve - the Chestnut Crab was developed by the same people that brought the world the Honeycrisp - the University of Minnesota. It was developed back in 1946. You can buy your very own tree from the famous Stark Bros Nursery.
My Experience with this Apple (Rating Scale 1-10)
[table]
Aspect, Score
Crispiness, 8
Tartness, 6
Apple Flavor, 8
Sweetness, 7
Juiciness, 7
Where I Bought Them, Tree-Mendus (Eau Claire, MI)
[/table]
Overall Feeling:
Wow, wow, wow, and wow so more. I love this apple. In my opinion - Best Crab apple EVER. Snack size mall, yet so flavorful. It packs the right amount of sweetness in perfect melody with it's tart side. The flavor is rich and slightly nutty. My wife's favorite part is the skin. We both think apples that have brown or russetting on them make for the best skin. If I wasn't having so much fun eating them, I know they would make an excellent apple jelly or butter.
I made the mistake in 2013, of only tasting the Chestnut Crab at Whole Foods and not buying a bag. The moment they were available this year, I made sure to get myself a full bag of them. If you find them as your produce worker for a sample, do not just pass them by. They are a hard to find variety so your best bet is stores that carry more unique and heirloom apples as well as visiting a farmer's market.
I planted on in 2012, because there are other different crab trees in the neighborhood. This will be my first year with fruit... they aren't quite ripe yet. can't wait, cuz I love them!!! btw it is in the front yard... but in case others should cut down their trees, I've planted 2 more apples in the back, a second chestnut, plus another, just so that I guarantee pollination! I want my own!!!