Gravenstener Apple has because of its high quality been a very popular apple and there are over the years created many variations of Gravenstener Apple. Yellow Gravenstener considered to be the original Gravenstener Apple.
After the tale of landscape architect John Henriksen can Gravenstener apple tree's history be traced back to an Ahlefeldt living on Gravensten(Graasten) castle: Count Frederick the Younger. (1662-1708). On a trip south he found near the monastery L'Abaye the Hautcombe at Lac du Borget in Savoy, France, this apple tree.
Growth is very strong and it can be a broad crowned tree. The tree is hardy, but very susceptible to canker and scab.
Flowering is early with big flowers. The variety is triploid and a poor pollinator.
The apple is large, somewhat irregular, angular. The original Gråsten was yellow with a slight red sunny side. But there are several more or less red types sold under the name 'Red Gravenstener'. The flesh is white with a tinge of salmon color. Very juicy. Tart sweet flavor with fine, spicy aroma.
The apple picking time is late September, and it can be stored for some months. Optimal eating quality in Week 39 - 44.
Gråsten is an apple of high quality but is considered difficult to grow because of susceptibility to disease. Gråsten apples gives a tasty apple juice. |
