Bortlinger Weinapfel

Why you should be excited

Bortlinger Weinapfel is an old German cider apple from the early 19th century that’s got plenty of positive attributes.

The story of Bortlinger Weinapfel

If you don’t know much about cider, you may think England and Germany are all about beer, while France and Spain are all about wine. Even if you know a bit about cider, you might think it’s limited mostly to England and northern areas of France.

But no, cider has had a significant place almost everywhere in Europe, including Germany. In fact, we’ve heard from some Germans who consider cider to be their ‘national’ drink. Pilsner loyalists might be horrified by that, but it’s true.

Hence Bortlinger Weinapfel, a German cider variety from the southwest of that country (not far from Munich) with some very positive characteristics.

Juicy, sweet and aromatic with bracing acidity, this variety works so well in cider, you could make a very nice single-varietal from it if you wished.Or do what we do and include it as part of a blend with other awesome cider varieties from Europe and beyond.

Bortlinger Weinapfel Facts

Its origins

Discovered in Göppingen, Germany, around 1827.

Flavour, aroma, texture

The juice is sweet, acidic and aromatic.

Appearance

Small, round apples are yellow washed and striped with purplish red.

When they’re available

Very late season (in our orchard, we expect early October).

Quality for fresh eating

Better suited to cider.

Quality for cooking

Again, stick to cidermaking with this one..

Quality for cider

Good.

Keeping ability

We’ll let you know when we find out.