Vermont Golden Russets (Apple month part 2)
it's apple week baby!!!
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"When one has tasted apples, he knows what the angels eat."
The Orchards of Vermont
The picturesque orchards of Vermont are where the Golden Russet Apple reigns supreme. With a golden, russeted skin that glimmers like autumn sunshine, these apples offer a blend of sweet and tart. A crisp, juicy flesh that practically sings with the essence of orchard-ripened fruit. It's a flavor profile that embodies the very essence of fall: warm, comforting, and utterly delightful.
A Slice of Vermont's History
Born in the early 19th century, this apple's origins trace back to the fertile soils of the Hudson Valley in New York. It is believed to be the result of crossbreeding between the Newtown Pippin and the English Russet, creating a unique and sought-after apple variety. Its name, "Golden Russet," aptly describes its lustrous, russeted skin, reminiscent of a golden autumn sunset.
As fate would have it, this exceptional apple found its way to the lush orchards of Vermont, where it truly flourished. Vermont's rugged terrain and temperate climate proved to be the perfect backdrop for the Golden Russet to thrive and develop its signature flavor. Farmers recognized the apple's potential and began cultivating it with care.
The moniker "champagne of cider apples" wasn't bestowed lightly. With its high sugar content and distinctive flavor profile, the Golden Russet Apple became a prized choice for cider makers during the 19th century. Its juice was treasured for its ability to produce a cider that rivaled the finest champagne, both in taste and effervescence. This accolade cemented the apple's status as a regional gem and solidified its place in the hearts of Vermonters.
Meal Ideas
Cider Pressing Tradition: Join in on a quintessential Vermont experience—cider pressing. Take these apples and turn them into liquid gold. Sip on freshly pressed cider, or let it ferment into hard cider, a beloved local tradition that has stood the test of time.
Vermont Golden Russet Apple Pie: Experience the essence of Vermont in a warm, homemade pie. Slice these apples thinly, mix them with a touch of brown sugar, cinnamon, and a squeeze of lemon juice, then nestle them inside a flaky pie crust. The result? A slice of heaven that captures the essence of fall.
Apple Cheddar Grilled Cheese: For a savory twist, layer thin apple slices between sharp Vermont cheddar cheese and grill to perfection. The sweet crunch of the Golden Russet apple pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese, creating a sandwich you won't soon forget.
Where to find the Vermont Golden Russet
If you’re lucky, you can find these this fall at the local grocery store. If not, then you can try Scott’s Farms, which sends baskets of the authentic Golden Russet by mail!
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