Gravenstein, and its sporty red sibling, may be the most sophisticated of the early apples. It has a complex taste and there is a Gravenstein Apple Fair in Sebastopol California every August.
The medium-sized, modestly ribbed fruit is mostly green
with a streaky red blush and tan spots.
Its white-green flesh is
firm, crisp and juicy.
The taste is a balanced tart-and-sweet, with spice and floral notes.
There is a tiny bit of pine towards the finish.
Similar to a
Red Gravenstein,
but not as sweet.
The Gravenstein Apple Fair folks provide recipes, history, and other juicy stuff about the Gravenstein.