Huntsman’s Favorite

Why you should be excited

Huntsman's Favorite is an apple from the U.S. midwest, known for good fresh-eating and productiveness.

The story of Huntsman's Favorite

It must have been exciting back in the day to plant an apple orchard from seed, having no idea whether any of your trees -- each bringing a new variety to the world -- would produce apples palatable for fresh eating.

Of course, it would be a slow-paced excitement, as it could take a decade or more before you'd eat your first apple from this new orchard.

After the wait, it'd be extra exciting when one or more varieties turned out to be of good quality.

That's what happened to John Hunstman of Missouri, who grew this apple, which didn't just prove to have good eating qualities; it also grew on a highly productive tree. A huge bonus, to be sure.

Never having gained fame beyond Missouri and Kansas, Huntsman's Favorite disappeared from widespread planting sometime before 1900.

Huntsman's Favorite Facts

Its origins

Raised from a seed in Fayette, Missouri, USA, about 1850.

Flavour, aroma, texture

Expect aromatic qualities and subacid flavour from the juicy, yellow flesh of this apple.

Appearance

A yellow apple that's large and roundish, occasionally with an orangish blush and/or some russet.

When they’re available

Mid-season (usually in early October).

Quality for fresh eating

Very good.

Quality for cooking

Mainly used for fresh eating.

Quality for cider

Not particularly known for use in cider, although it undoubtedly was included in many old-time cider blends.

Keeping ability

Good (2 or 3 months when kept refrigerated).