Adam's Apples

Distinctive Piñata was first introduced into the Northeast last February. Its arrival a few weeks earlier this year permits a comparison with Pacific Rose, another newcomer. A face-off is hard to resist since they share some lush flavors. Consider this the hibernal battle of the tropical tastes.

The soft pink blush of this apple suggests that 1990s designer hue, "Dusty Rose." The apple itself is generally a large medium, with ribbing that gives many a blocky, rectangular aspect. That dusty-rose blush is variegated, and there are large tan lenticels and an open calyx under the base. The unbroken fruit has a firm feel and a sweet aroma.