Centennial Crabapple**

You probably know that crabapples are, basically, little apples. They can be sour, bitter, sweet, good, or bad, just like other apples.

Just had to get that out of the way.

Today's are on the large side for crabs, standing about 2 inches tall. Although standing is a little problematic because, for some, the remains of the calyx, clenched tight, project beyond the tiny area defined by the "chins" or crown at the base.

These are quite pretty, with a fuchsia blush rendered creamy in spots by a faint bloom. The underlying peel is a cheerful yellow, and glossy.

They are elongated and classically tapered, though not always symmetrical.

Lenticels are tiny light tan dots, some filled in with gray matter. In some parts of the yellow peel, the dots echo the red blush.

My samples have traveled from Indiana and emerge from their packing with a mix of sweet, floral, and funky aromas, the latter possibly from some superficial bruising.

So eat already

Centennial has coarse-grained yellow flesh, crisp but a bit yielding, that bears a lot of juice, sugar, and saturated flavor.

There are spice and floral notes, with hints of tangerine, or maybe pineapple, and coconut, and a very little bit of melon. These hints, however, hover in the background.

The spiciness is married to an effervescent quality, as though this apple were asking to be pressed into cider.

These would be easier to unpack were there just a tad less sugar, but I think you will agree that this is an impressive flavor set, and a real treat.

If you harbored any doubts that crabapples can be delicious, Centennial Crab should put them to rest.

Centennial background

Google "Centennial crabapple" and you will find it for sale from many nurseries, who will tell you it is a Dolgo x Wealthy cross from the University of Minnesota ca 1957. 

I would say Centennial strongly favors the pollen parent, and I would also say, fortunately so.

It's not exactly a new apple, but it is new to me. I haven't had anything new to chew on since last winter, so I am especially grateful to Pete, the Indiana orchardist who sent these to me.

Pete sent me some Trailman crabapples last August, and he found room in the box this year for a few of those too. Thanks, Pete!