Devonshire Quarrenden

Why you should be excited

Devonshire Quarrenden is a very old English variety that ripens early and can be as red as they come. 

The story of Devonshire Quarrenden

With the old apple varieties, there’s often a great deal of supposition.

Take Devonshire Quarrenden, an apple first recorded in the 17th century, but thought to be much older than that. Did it come from Devon, England, as the name implies? Or from France as some people guess? And where did the second half of its name – ‘Quarrenden’ – come from? Might it be from Carentan, a small town in Normandy, France?

What we do know is that Devonshire Quarrenden was once considered the best of relatively early apples. Since surpassed by varieties that don’t go all woolly within a few days of picking, this remains a tasty summer apple.

Devonshire Quarrenden Facts

Its origins

Discovered in Devon, England or Carentan, France; first recorded in 1678.

Flavour, aroma, texture

Crisp, juicy and refreshingly tart/sweet white flesh. At times, people note a strawberry-like flavour (but don't count on it).

Appearance

A pretty, smallish and relatively flat apple with a greenish-yellow background almost completely flushed with bright crimson-red.

When they’re available

Early season (usually in late August).

Quality for fresh eating

Good. Also good for juice.

Quality for cooking

Mainly used for fresh eating.

Quality for cooking

Not particularly known for cider, but since its juice has a very good reputation, you'd think Devonshire Quarrenden would at least be capable of contributing some decent bulk to ciders.

Keeping ability

Next to none (you'll want to eat it within a day of picking).