Pitmaston Pineapple

Why you should be excited

Pitmaston Pineapple is yet another apple reputed to taste like a different fruit. Can you guess which one?

The story of Pitmaston Pineapple

This smallish apple delivers excellent flavour, but not everyone thinks “pineapple” when they taste it.

Some claim the name refers not to flavour but colour and shape. Regardless, Pitmaston Pineapple was popular in the United Kingdom in the 19th century and again in the 1920s.

It’s stood the test of time, delivering intense and distinctive flavour in good years. Even those who don’t sense pineapple tend to agree that it’s got an appealing muskiness and pretty much everyone rates the flavour as something special and worth seeking out.

And that's despite the small size of the fruit and their tendency to crop well only every second year.

Pitmaston Pineapple Facts

Its origins

Raised from a seed in Herefordshire, England, circa 1785.

Flavour, aroma, texture

The yellowish flesh is intensely flavoured, sweet yet sharp, rich, nutty and honeyed. Some people sense a distinct pineapple flavour, while others don't at all.

Appearance

This small, oblong apple is golden in skin colour, with dots of russet.

When they’re available

Late season (usually in mid-October).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality for cooking

Mainly used for fresh eating.

Quality for cider

Not particularly known for use in cider.

Keeping ability

Good (2 months when kept refrigerated).