Jonagold Apple
Just as its name suggests, this variety is a cross between Golden Delicious and Jonathan. The apple was developed in 1968 in a breeding program at the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station at Geneva, New York. It is one of the leading commercial varieties on the European continent, particularly in the cooler climates of Belgium and Holland. There are now over 70 strains of the variety and, depending on strain and climate, the color varies from pale green-gold with faint red strip to solid red. Here at Harmony Orchards we grow a red- striped strain.
Containing the tart-sweetness of Jonathan and the juicy crispness found in the texture of the Goldens, the subtle and complex taste seems to be at its best for a couple of weeks after picking. Jonagolds are delicious when eaten fresh but it is also a sweet-tart dessert apple. They are an excellent choice for apple pies; delicious in salads and hold their own when paired with strong cheeses. When the first ripe Jonagolds appear we make applesauce for our Sunday morning pancakes.
