Herring’s Pippin

Why you should be excited

Herring’s Pippin is a super-bright-red early apple that’s large and packs a distinctive anise-like flavour.

The story of Herring's Pippin

If your idea of a ‘real’ apple is one that’s large and bright red, don’t be fooled into thinking you only like the most modern of picture-perfect grocery store varieties.

After all, there have been big red apples for a long time.

Here’s one example, although at just a century-plus since it was first raised, this isn’t exactly an ancient variety. But Herring’s Pippin has existed for longer than anyone who will ever read this and it is indeed a big, red-red-red apple.

Now, as long as you find a hint of aniseed an appealing aspect of an apple’s flavour, you might just have found a new favourite. It’s also crisp and juicy and ripens early.

Herring's Pippin Facts

Its origins

Raised from a seed in Lincoln, England; recorded in 1908.

Flavour, aroma, texture

Crisp and juicy with a distinct anise flavour. Texture is coarse.

Appearance

A big, eye-catching, bright-red apple.

When they’re available

Early season (usually in early September).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality for cooking

Mainly used for fresh eating.

Not particularly known as a cider apple.

Keeping ability

So-so (about a month when kept refrigerated).