This time of year marks the beginning of apple season (that is, for those of us down under in Australia). With apples being available all year round, it’s easy to forget when apple season actually is… Peak season is May until August.
Last week we were fortunate enough to attend the official launch of the 2019 apple season, over a delicious lunch prepared by Peter Gilmore, at the Quay Restaurant. This renowned harbour side restaurant looks out over Sydney’s most iconic landmarks. At this event we had the opportunity to taste a new apple variety, the ‘Envy’, which is only in its second season harvest. This crisp, sweet apple is the latest addition to the Montague range.
Montague is a family owned business spanning three generations, dedicated to providing consistently high quality produce since 1948. The ‘Envy’ variety is grown primarily in the rich soils of Batlow, NSW, Stanthorpe, Queensland and Tasmania.
We also learned about the artistry involved in cross pollinating apples to create particular qualities and characteristics in new apple varieties. The envy variety is the result of crossing the Braeburn and Royal Gala apples, the same combination as the well known sister variety, the JAZZ. The characteristics successfully achieved in the envy are sweetness, density, low acidity and high juice ratio. All this whilst maintaining a white flesh long after being sliced, making it an ideal choice for salads, snacks and cheese platters.
After the first harvest, the envy apple has already gained popularity in Asia and is in high demand globally. Great news for Australian growers and the Montague family.
Envy apples are now available exclusively at Woolworths throughout Australia and we highly recommend you try them!
