Improved Dove

Why you should be excited

Improved Dove is a mildly bittersweet English cider apple from Somerset that’s resistant to scab.

The story of Improved Dove

This apple is called ‘improved’ because Improved Dove – grown in England from a seed of the original Dove – has better qualities than the original, so has supplanted it.

Both are juicy and bitter, ideally suited to cidermaking, but this one has the added benefits of slightly larger fruit and less susceptibility to apple scab, which is a problem not because of the ugly scabs, but rather because it can reduce the size of the harvest.

One of many varieties of middling renown that can come together in blends to make brilliant English-style cider. It ripens in mid-season and the tree is vigorous, tending to be biennial.

Improved Dove Facts

Its origins

Started from seed in Somerset, England, early 20th century.

Flavour, aroma, texture

The fruit is juicy and the juice is tannic, with a mildly sweet aftertaste.

Appearance

Small to medium-sized apples flushed and striped with red.

When they’re available

Mid to late season (in our orchard, we expect late September).

Quality for fresh eating

This is a cider-only apple.

Quality for cooking

Cider-only.

Quality for cider

Good.

Keeping ability

Good (you can delay pressing for up to 2 months if the fruit is refrigerated).