One of the things I do when I am reviewing an apple variety is to research what apples were used to create this variety. In this case the name says it all. A Jonamac apple is naturally a cross between a Jonathan and a McIntosh. It originated in the state of New York in 1972. It is a small to medium sized apple with a bright white flesh on the inside. Jonamacs ripen just before their parent the McIntosh, so around early September.
My Experience with this Apple (Rating Scale 1-10)
Crispiness: 5
Tartness : 5
Apple Flavor: 6
Sweetness: 6
Juiciness: 5
Overall Feeling: I think this apple is more McIntosh than Jonathan. It has a similar flavor and texture to a McIntosh, but I do think it is more crisp and has an improved flavor. It's not bad for an out of hand eating apple and would be great to use in applesauce. Some people say they can be used in baking, but I don't think the apples would hold their shape well enough. There are better baking apples for sure.
Mickey Henkel
I bought Jonamacs about three weeks ago at my local farmers market but now can't find it. No apple sellers I ask about it have even heard of it. I swear I didn't dream it but if I were going to dream of an apple, this would be it. Where can I find it?
admin
These apples aren't easy to find. I have only seen them at farmer's markets, never in a grocery store. I am thinking the season for them is short, so you might be waiting until next year for more.
Spuffler
Just bought (on Sept 18, 2011) a half peck of Jonamacs at a WalMart in Farmington NH. The bag reads: "Dist by New York Apple Sales, Walden NY 12586". Me, since I bought this bag of apples, I have finally rediscovered an apple variety which I had been seeking ever since realizing that those apples which I had as a kid weren't really true Macs (as my mother proclaimed them to be). The orchard where I discovered them was of no use, that Orchard had changed hands and unproductive trees were removed. Incredibly, WalMart had them. Softer flesh and softer skin compared to a true Mac, and slightly sweeter. SLIGHTLY sweeter, and, for me, just right!
Pamela Burke
It's Dec.3rd and I'm calling all over town looking for Jonamac apples...my mom is hooked on them and, I can't find any in Cadillac, M.I....any ideas. I bought them at Member during the fall up until about 3 weeks ago. Any ideas where I can get some now?
philip
Just picked some jonamacs on Long Island ny. There is an orchard called woodside in jamesport, ny. They are excellent and if you like hard cidar you ll find it there too.