I found the variety at Malergården in Odsherred, painter Sigurd Swane and family's home. The apple varieties in the garden I tried to determine in 2012. There were still a few varieties, I was not sure of, why I have visited the garden again here in 2021.
The first time I thought the variety could be Wheelers Russet, because the apples were very angular. But when I saw the apples again, I saw that there were apples on the tips of the branches.
Of the russet apples that are tip bearer, I have found only 3. Namely the Golden Russet, Roxbury Russet and Saint Edmund's Russet. Saint Edmund's Russet are too early. Roxbury Russet has a longer stem and is more flattened.
Golden Russet has been a popular American variety. Agnete Swane's sister married and settled in the United States. In 1936, she visited Malergården at Christmas, and it is not inconceivable that she brought an apple tree from the USA.
Golden Russet apple is believed to originate from New York in the 1700s or 1800s.
The tree is the point bearer. Tendency to every two years bearing. Moderately strong growth. Fruit of 1st class quality. Good resistance to scab, cancer and mildew.
The variety was grown commercially in the United States for some time before it was deselected because of its appearance. It has recently regained some popularity due to its strengths in cider production.
The apples are medium-sized, largely covered with brownish rust, that can turn orange-brown on the sunny side. The flesh of the Golden Russet apple is fine-grained, yellow, crispy and juicy. The taste is a combination of sweetness, acidity and a complex aroma.
Can be used from November to March. Is suitable as an eating apple and food, juice and cider. The sugar content is high.
Can be confused with Roxbury Russet, which however has a longer stem and is more flattened. |