D’Arcy Spice

Why you should be excited

D’Arcy Spice is an English apple with a unique spicy flavour that needs time in storage to develop well.

The story of D’Arcy Spice

We’ve got good news and we’ve got bad news.

Bad news first: D’Arcy Spice is a slow-growing apple tree that’s poor at pollinating others and produces inconsistent crops of ugly apples that aren’t particularly palatable when they’re harvested.

Sound forgettable?

Wait, though! There’s good news too: this is a disease-resistant tree that does okay on poor soils, the fruit develops a fascinating cinnamon-like spiciness after it’s been stored a month or two and it keeps well.

So, if you’re looking for grocery store sex-appeal, D’Arcy Spice is likely not for you. Otherwise – and especially if you’ve developed a taste for russet apples – you might very well enjoy this distinctive variety from olde England.

D’Arcy Spice Facts

Its origins

Discovered near Colchester, Essex, England, 18th century.

Flavour, aroma, texture

Needs time in storage before its sweet, spicy flavour emerges.

Appearance

Knobbly-shaped with patches of brown russet over green.

When they’re available

Very late season (usually in November).

Quality for fresh eating

Very good.

Quality for cooking

Mainly used for fresh eating.

Quality for cider

Doesn't have a particular history as a cider apple, but -- like other heritage varieties -- it can almost certainly contribute positively to cider blends.

Keeping ability

Very good (about 4 months when kept refrigerated).