Wolf River

Why you should be excited

Wolf River is the dream apple variety for bakers who like their apples huge, tender, firm and holding their shape.

The story of Wolf River

If you like your apples big, you're going to want to check out Wolf River. If you like to bake with apples, you may have already heard of Wolf River.

And if you enjoy learning about the history of apple varieties, you'll be wanting to look up Wolf River, Wisconsin, the location where this fine apple was first discovered, way back in 1875.

Yes, Wolf River is a classic old U.S. apple variety, apparent offspring of the old Russian apple variety Alexander. Some enjoy Wolf River for fresh eating, while others aren't so sure, due to its softish flesh. But it's pretty much unanimous that this is one of the all-time great cookers, especially since you can get a pie out of just one or two apples.

This is a mid-season ripening apple that's well known among growers for its trees, which are highly productive -- and stay that way for decades. Growers love its hardiness (necessary to survive those Wisconsin winters), its disease resistance and its productivity.

You'll likely be most impressed by the tenderness and assertive flavour of Wolf River's flesh, along with its ability to hold together well when cooked.

Wolf River Facts

Its origins

Discovered in Wisconsin, USA, 1875.

Flavour, aroma, texture

Tender, sub-acid/tart. Good apple flavour.

Appearance

Variable, but consistently attractive. Huge in size, usually flattish, with a red flush covering most of its yellow background skin colour.

When they’re available

Mid-season (usually in late September).

Quality for fresh eating

Mixed, due to its softness.

Quality for cooking

Excellent (holds its shape when cooked).

Keeping ability

Good (about 2 months when kept refrigerated).