Winesap Apples for Delivery or Pickup

The Winesap apple is thought to have originated in New Jersey some years before 1800. It started being grown for commercial purposes in the 1900s. This variety was widely grown in the southern states of the U.S., especially Virginia. Winesap apples have progenies that include Blacktwig, Arkansas Black, and Stayman Winesap apples. 

During the 20th century, the production of Winesap apples declined since most farmers preferred growing fresh-eating apple varieties. There was also increased popularity in controlled atmosphere storage. This allowed people to grow various apple varieties that could be produced, stored, and sold within the year. Recently, there has been a growing interest in heirloom apple varieties, Winesap being one of them. Although not in large numbers, they are now grown in Oregon, Georgia, and Washington.

Winesap apples are medium-sized, with thick dark-red skin. Their skin is firm, and their creamy yellow flesh is crisp and juicy. Their taste is a balance of sweet and tart, with high fragrance notes. Their name results from their spicy fine wine-like flavor. A unique aspect of Winesap apples is that this variety has pink flower blossoms, unlike most apple trees, whose flowers are white. The harvest time for Winesap apples is between September and November.

Winesap apples have firm skin, but when ripe, their skin should give. Hold it between your thumb and index finger, and squeeze gently. If it's too hard, then the fruit is yet to ripen. They also have a consistent red color when ripe. If you have a Winesap apple orchard at home, it should not be hard to tell when the fruits are ready for picking. With a bit of twist, ripe apple stems come off the branch easily. Any stem resistance indicates that the Winesap apple is unripe.

At home, cut the Winesap apple into halves and observe their seeds. Ripe apples have dark brown seeds, unlike unripe ones, whose seeds are greenish. Another way to tell if your Winesap apples are ripe is by taking a bite. When ripe, these apples are juicy, sweet-tart, with a wine aroma. Unripe Winesap apples have a sharp, slightly acidic taste. 

Check out for bruising on the apples. Deep bruises may cause mold development on the flesh, although it happens rarely. Cut and throw away the bruised part if there is no mold on the skin or flesh. Insect holes on these apples are also a sign that the inside might have mold. Do not buy or consume such apples. Discolored spots are also expected on Winesap apples, but do not eat if the discoloration continues deep into the flesh.

These apples have a firm texture. If they develop a mushy texture or skin that is ruptured with liquid oozing out, the apples are spoiled. Some develop wrinkly skin, but these are still edible. They are best grated to make a pie or salad. Bad Winesap apples also lack their natural fragrance. Instead, they have a fermented smell. Some of these apples might also have skin that's too hard, meaning they are too aged for consumption.

There are various recipes you can try with these apples. Order through Instacart and fill your cart with enough Winesap apples for your select recipes. To make your day easier while you save on time and money, Instacart shoppers will have your order delivered in as little as 2 hours!