Adam's Apples

Macoun in autumn Even in a good year, the delightful Macoun cannot be had for love or money after the end of March. Yet I am eating one today at the tail end of May. It's a wonderful apple in inferior shape, and eating one today is both rewarding and disappointing. Nonetheless I eat for pleasure and by choice, not from obligation or loyalty.

Part of the orchard at Hutchins Farm on May 13 The last time I visited Hutchins Farm in Concord (Mass.), it was April and the orchard was just beginning to blossom. I returned earlier today to find the trees all set, gay blossoms put away, earnestly laboring (one hopes) to bring forth fruit this fall.

So, what makes an apple an heirloom? Or antique? Is it just a matter of seniority, or is there more to it than that?