Wet Winter Causes Delay in Apple Harvest, Offering Promise of Rich Flavors and Aromas
Apples, known as some of the first fall fruits, are being greeted with anticipation this season. However, farmers have faced delays in their harvest due to the wet winter conditions, meaning that the apples will be available a bit later compared to last year. Despite this setback, there is no shortage of excitement for the tempting aroma of baked apples and apple pie.
In the bustling markets of East Bay, apple lovers will find a wide array of apple varieties that cannot be found in grocery stores. Many farmers have returned to cultivating traditional heirloom varieties, which are known for their superior flavor in comparison to the more common hybrids. The Gravenstein, Arkansas Black, and Pink Lady are among the old apple varieties that farmers have chosen to grow once again.
When it comes to apples, there are specific types best suited for baking, making applesauce, or enjoying as a fresh snack. To find the perfect match for your cooking and eating needs, it is always a good idea to consult with your local farmer, who will provide expert guidance.
Rainbow Orchards, located in the hills of Camino between Sacramento and Reno, attends the Concord farmers’ market on Tuesdays. Their mountain-grown apple orchards, sitting at an elevation of 3,400 feet, offer a variety of apples including Braeburn, Pippin, Fuji, Honey Crisp, Arkansas Black, as well as standard hybrids like Gala, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Jonathon, and Macintosh. These apples are typically available starting in early September.
Another Tuesday attendee at the Concord farmers’ market is Smit Farms, boasting an impressive selection of over 36 apple varieties throughout the season. Located in Linden, their orchards are a cornucopia of flavors, making it a delightful challenge to choose which ones to indulge in. Some of their notable varieties include Crimson Crisp, Cameo, Jewel, and Black Twig. Most of their orchards are certified organic, with a focus on sustainable farming practices.
In the Fresno area, Diaz Farms cultivates their Fuji and Gala apples. For nearly three decades, the owner and his family have been farming near the Central Valley city of Fowler, expanding their orchards to include other seasonal fruits. They can be found at Concord’s Tuesday and Thursday farmers’ markets.
J&J Ramos Farms, another esteemed Central Valley farmer, offers an impressive lineup of apple varieties. They grow Fuji, Gala, Crimson Gala, Pippin, Franny Smith, Honey Crisp, and Pink Lady apples. With 350 acres of orchards in Hughson, J&J Ramos Farms is dedicated to providing their customers with the finest quality apples.
Please keep in mind that Concord’s Thursday evening market will be closing for the season on September 28th. However, the city’s Tuesday market will remain open year-round, ensuring that apple enthusiasts can still get their fix.
Debra Morris, a promotions coordinator for the Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market Association, encourages everyone to embark on this apple-filled culinary journey. The flavors and aromas of apples are simply too delightful to resist. To further enhance your apple experience, Debra also provides a delicious recipe for apple butter. Core and peel the apples, place them in a slow cooker, and add the remaining ingredients. Let it cook for several hours until the apples are soft. Finally, blend the mixture until smooth, transfer it into sterilized jars, and refrigerate them for up to two weeks or use a water bath canner for long-term preservation.
As apple lovers eagerly await the delayed harvest, the abundance of flavors and aromas promises a bountiful and gratifying season. Whether baked into pies, transformed into applesauce, or simply enjoyed on their own, the diverse varieties of apples offer something for everyone. Head to your local farmers’ market, explore the options, and savor the delectable taste of these beloved fall fruits.
